Pros:
– Improved privacy: DuckDuckGo is known for its strong privacy practices, so using it as the default search engine in Safari’s private browsing mode could enhance user privacy.
– Diversity in options: Offering DuckDuckGo as a default search engine would provide users with an alternative to Google, promoting competition and giving users more choice.
– Enhanced security: DuckDuckGo’s focus on blocking trackers and maintaining encryption could potentially offer users a more secure browsing experience.
Cons:
– Potential limitations: DuckDuckGo, although increasingly popular, may not have the same extensive search capabilities or refined algorithms as Google.
– User familiarity: Google has been the dominant search engine for years, and users may be accustomed to its features and interface, making a switch to DuckDuckGo a bit challenging for some.
– Impact on user experience: Depending on the quality and relevance of search results, users may find a potential downgrade in their browsing experience if DuckDuckGo’s search capabilities do not match their expectations.
Note: The outcome of the discussion between Apple and DuckDuckGo is unknown at this time.
context: https://www.macrumors.com/2023/10/05/apple-considered-duckduckgo-default-private-search/
In 2018, Apple explored the possibility of replacing Google with DuckDuckGo as the default search engine for private browsing mode. However, they ultimately dismissed the idea, as revealed in recently unsealed court transcripts from the US government’s antitrust trial against Google.
