Apple is reportedly exploring the use of artificial intelligence to power Safari search, a move that could reduce its reliance on Google. The news, revealed during Department of Justice hearings, triggered a rare and swift response from Google after its parent company Alphabet lost 7.3% in stock value—around $150 billion.
Apple’s senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, hinted during testimony that Apple may eventually replace Google as the default search engine on iPhones. He also noted a drop in Google searches on Safari as more users begin turning to AI tools for quick answers.
Google Fires Back with Terse Statement
In response to the rumors, Google issued a rare public denial. The company stated that search activity continues to grow overall, especially from Apple devices. Google emphasized that users are increasingly using voice search and tools like Google Lens, signaling continued relevance despite AI competition.
“We continue to see overall query growth in Search,” Google said in a brief blog post. “That includes an increase in total queries coming from Apple’s devices and platforms.”
Shifting Dynamics in AI and Search
This isn’t the first time Apple has hinted at moving beyond Google. The company already offers Visual Look Up, a feature similar to Google Lens, and is actively developing Apple Intelligence. Industry insiders suggest Apple could eventually integrate Google’s Gemini AI or OpenAI’s ChatGPT more deeply into its ecosystem.
Apple’s contract with Google, reportedly worth $20 billion annually, remains in place—for now. However, the DOJ’s antitrust case against Google could change that. Regulators aim to end exclusive default deals and possibly break up parts of Google’s ad business.
What’s Next?
Apple has yet to confirm any AI search product officially, but the tech world is watching closely. If Apple introduces its own AI-powered search or partners with a competitor, it could challenge Google’s dominance—and give users more choices on iPhones.
As AI reshapes how we search online, Apple and Google are preparing for a high-stakes shift that could redefine the future of mobile browsing.
