Google aims to terminate connections with Apple's Safari amid DOJ antitrust probe: report

According to reports, Google is investigated by the Ministry of Justice and its relationship with Apple has been reviewed. This survey may include a large payment from Google to Apple, and it is estimated to exceed $ 20 billion a year to provide its default search engine as an iPhone (via 9to5mac). According to the Ministry of Justice, this arrangement limits competition in the search engine industry. Although Apple was not named in the lawsuit, Apple executives including Eddy Cue testified. A recent report by The Information reveals strategic moves by Google to reduce reliance on Apple's Safari browser pending the outcome of the cartel case.

Over the years, Google has tried to move iPhone users to its Google and Chrome apps for search purposes. Despite some progress, with app searches rising to 30% from 25% five years ago, the momentum stalled in the second half of last year. This number is still well below Google's goal of 50% by 2030. The billions of dollars paid by Apple are said to be part of a revenue-sharing deal in which Apple receives a portion of the ad revenue generated by Google's searches on Safari. By encouraging users to switch to Chrome and Google apps, Google hopes to pay Apple less and be less subject to regulation.

However, convincing users to ditch the pre-installed Safari browser on Apple devices has proven to be a difficult task. The report adds that to spearhead this initiative, Google recently brought on board Robby Stein, a former executive at Instagram and Yahoo. Stein’s mandate includes leveraging generative AI to enhance the appeal of Google’s apps, as disclosed by individuals involved in the effort. Google executives even considered limiting its AI Reviews feature, which provides AI-generated search answers, to its own apps. This would mean that Safari users would not be able to use AI reports, a feature that was eventually abandoned.