Apple Contemplated Transitioning To DuckDuckGo Search Engine From Google

Apple had reportedly engaged in talks with DuckDuckGo to potentially replace Alphabet’s Google as the default search engine for the private browsing mode on Apple's Safari browser. The revelation comes amid a federal antitrust suit against Google, shedding light on discussions that were initially held behind closed doors.

The details of these talks are expected to be unveiled later this week, following a ruling by Judge Amit Mehta, who presides over the antitrust case. Initially, the judge had allowed DuckDuckGo's CEO, Gabriel Weinberg and Apple executive John Giannandrea to testify about the negotiations in private. However, Judge Mehta later determined that this testimony "goes to the heart of the case" and should be made public. Similar discussions between Microsoft and Apple are also expected to be disclosed.

The private browsing mode in Safari is renowned for its privacy features, not tracking users' website visits or retaining a browsing history.

Both Apple and Google had sought to keep the testimony confidential, but Judge Mehta reviewed the transcripts and decided to release the executives' comments to the public. Certain exceptions would be made to protect trade secrets, including Apple's project names and specific financial figures discussed during the negotiations.

DuckDuckGo has refrained from making any public comments regarding the judge's ruling. These developments unfold within the broader context of an ongoing antitrust lawsuit where the US Justice Department alleges that Google paid substantial sums to Apple and other entities to secure its status as the default search engine on various browsers and smartphones.