Apple CEO considered making DuckDuckGo the default search engine in iOS 17’s private browsing mode, according to recent revelations in the ongoing antitrust trial. Transcripts of testimonies from DuckDuckGo CEO and Apple SVP shed light on these discussions. The DuckDuckGo CEO claimed to have had 20 meetings with Apple regarding the possibility of integration but unfortunately, it didn’t materialize.
During the trial, Apple’s SVP dismissed the switch to DuckDuckGo, citing concerns about incongruent marketing strategies and a heavy reliance on Bing. This revelation comes after it was previously disclosed that Apple has a lucrative deal with Google, using its search engine as the default option in Safari.
Interestingly, it’s not just DuckDuckGo that Apple considered for partnership or acquisition. Apple and Microsoft also explored the possibility of collaborating or acquiring Microsoft’s search engine, Bing. These undisclosed negotiations have sparked curiosity among tech enthusiasts.
The antitrust trial taking place also sheds light on Google’s deal with Apple. The judge overseeing the case is closely examining the arrangement between the two tech giants, as part of allegations of anti-competitive behavior. This deal has fueled concerns about Google’s dominance in the search engine market.
In response to these discussions, a spokesperson for DuckDuckGo emphasized the privacy measures taken by the search engine. DuckDuckGo is well-known for its commitment to user privacy and non-invasive tracking, which resonates with a growing number of privacy-conscious individuals.
These revelations regarding Apple’s considerations and negotiations in the search engine realm highlight the intense competition among tech giants and the potential impact on user experience and privacy. As the trial unfolds, more insights into the intricate relationships between Apple, Google, Microsoft, and DuckDuckGo are expected to emerge. Stay tuned for further updates.
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