Defining Agentic Discovery: Between Perceptions and Reality

This IDC Perspective explores the evolution of digital discovery in agentic AI, highlighting its shift from static, keyword-based search to adaptive, intent-driven systems powered by generative AI and large language models. The report emphasizes that discovery is fundamentally about knowledge, not commerce, and positions agentic AI as a strategic capability for organizations to enhance relevance, trust, and authority in the emerging answer engine economy."Agentic AI is transforming digital discovery from static, keyword-based search to adaptive, intent-driven systems, where collaboration and data readiness are key differentiators for companies aiming to inspire and engage customers," said Research Director Ornella Urso, IDC Retail Insights. "In the age of agentic AI, discovery is the new front line of brand visibility, authority, and influence. The gatekeepers of digital knowledge now define relevance, trust, and influence in a world where every answer is a new frontier," said Research Director Heather Hershey, IDC.