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Apple Explores Switching to DuckDuckGo as Default Search Engine for Safari
Updated: Jan 8
In a recent development, Apple has reportedly held discussions with DuckDuckGo to potentially replace Google as the default search engine for the private mode on Apple's Safari browser.
The talks between Apple and DuckDuckGo are said to be aimed at enhancing user privacy and providing an alternative to Google's search engine.
The details of these discussions are expected to be revealed later this week, following a ruling by Judge Amit Mehta in a federal antitrust suit against Google. The unsealing of testimony from DuckDuckGo CEO Gabriel Weinberg and Apple executive John Giannandrea will shed more light on the potential partnership.
Apple's consideration of DuckDuckGo as a search engine alternative comes amidst increasing scrutiny of Google's dominance in the search market. Last month, the U.S. Department of Justice argued in a landmark trial that Google had engaged in illegal practices by paying billions of dollars to smartphone makers, including Apple, to secure its position as the default search engine.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella also testified in the trial, revealing that Microsoft had attempted to make its Bing search engine the default on Apple smartphones but was unsuccessful. Nadella criticised Google for locking up content through exclusive deals with publishers, hindering competition in the search market.
Neither Apple, DuckDuckGo, nor Google have provided an immediate response to Reuters' request for comment on the potential switch.
This move by Apple reflects a growing trend towards prioritsing user privacy and offering alternatives to dominant search engines. DuckDuckGo, known for its strong privacy features and commitment to not track user data, could provide Apple users with a more privacy-focused search experience.
Apple has held talks with DuckDuckGo to potentially replace Google as the default search engine for Safari's private mode.
The discussions aim to enhance user privacy and provide an alternative to Google's search engine.
Details of the talks will be revealed later this week following a ruling in a federal antitrust suit against Google.
Source: REUTERS