[castigatio]

Google search + LLM based search is far more effective than Google search alone. Google's stated mission has been to organize the world's information. Being able to ask a far more nuanced question about the kind of information you are looking for - and getting mostly useful responses - is more useful. Just one example among many. Simple natural language interaction with computer systems is huge. Just look at what LLM's are doing for robotics.

[mylifeandtimes]

Is it better than google search 20 years ago, when most web content was authoritative and not SEO crap?

Is it better than google search 20 year ago, when "google-fu" was a thing (look it up, google-fu refers to the ability to "ask a far more nuanced question about the kind of information you are looking for").