Apple is considering adding AI search engines to Safari

Engadget - May 7th, 2025
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Apple is considering integrating AI search services, such as Perplexity or OpenAI's SearchGPT, into future versions of Safari, as revealed by Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of services. This potential shift was discussed during Cue's testimony in Google's ongoing search antitrust case, where he highlighted the evolving landscape of search engines with AI technology presenting new possibilities. Though no definitive plans were shared, Cue emphasized the growing potential of AI to replace traditional search engines, noting that significant financial backing and large players now exist in this space. Google's dominance as the default search engine on iPhones, backed by a lucrative $18 billion annual payment to Apple, may face challenges from these new AI entrants.

The declining number of Google searches in Safari for the first time in 22 years suggests a shift in user behavior, possibly toward AI platforms like ChatGPT or Gemini. This development adds pressure on Apple and Google to maintain their mutually beneficial relationship while navigating the changing digital landscape. Additionally, Apple's own AI endeavors have faced setbacks, leading to delayed updates of its Siri platform and a reliance on third-party models. These dynamics underscore a pivotal moment in the tech industry, where AI's role in search is increasingly significant, and competition among tech giants intensifies.

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RATING

7.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article is a well-researched and timely piece that provides a comprehensive overview of Apple's potential integration of AI search engines into Safari. It effectively highlights key issues such as the financial dynamics between Apple and Google and the implications for the search engine market. The article's factual accuracy is strong, supported by credible sources and direct testimony from a key Apple executive. However, it could benefit from a broader range of perspectives and more detailed explanations of technical aspects to enhance balance and clarity. The story is relevant to public interest, given its potential impact on consumer behavior and market competition. Overall, it is an informative and engaging article that addresses significant developments in the tech industry.

RATING DETAILS

9
Accuracy

The news story demonstrates a high level of factual accuracy, with all major claims being verified by multiple reputable sources. The assertion that Apple is considering integrating AI-powered search engines like Perplexity into Safari is supported by statements from Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of services, and corroborated by various reports. The story accurately reflects Cue's testimony in the context of Google's ongoing search antitrust case. Additionally, the claim regarding the decline in Google searches via Safari is confirmed, adding credibility to the narrative. However, the story could improve by providing more precise details about the timeline for potential integration and the specific AI services under consideration.

7
Balance

The article presents a fairly balanced view of the situation, highlighting both Apple's interest in AI search engines and the existing financial relationship with Google. It acknowledges the potential impact of AI on traditional search engines, reflecting Eddy Cue's belief in AI's future dominance. However, the article could benefit from including perspectives from other stakeholders, such as Google or independent analysts, to provide a more comprehensive view of the implications for the search engine market. The focus on Apple's strategy may overshadow the broader industry context, which could be addressed by incorporating additional viewpoints.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information that guides the reader through the main points. The language is straightforward, making the technical aspects of AI search integration accessible to a general audience. However, some sections could benefit from more detailed explanations, particularly regarding the technical capabilities of AI search engines like Perplexity and how they differ from traditional search engines. This additional clarity would help readers better understand the significance of the potential shift in search engine technology.

8
Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including direct testimony from Eddy Cue and reports from reputable outlets like Bloomberg. These sources lend authority to the claims made in the story. However, the article could enhance its source quality by referencing a wider range of industry experts or analysts to provide additional context and analysis. While the primary sources are strong, diversifying the sources could strengthen the article's credibility and depth.

7
Transparency

The article is moderately transparent, clearly attributing key information to Eddy Cue's testimony and Bloomberg's reporting. It provides a reasonable amount of context regarding the Google-Apple search deal and Apple's AI strategy. However, the article could improve transparency by offering more details about the methodology of how the information was gathered and any potential conflicts of interest. For instance, discussing how Apple's financial incentives with Google might influence its public statements on AI search integration would provide a clearer picture of the underlying dynamics.

Sources

  1. https://www.ibj.com/articles/apple-working-to-move-to-ai-search-in-browser-amid-google-fallout
  2. https://www.macrumors.com/2025/05/07/apple-working-on-ai-search-in-safari/
  3. https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/07/apple-ai-search-partner-safari-google/
  4. https://economictimes.com/markets/stocks/news/alphabet-shares-fall-9-as-apple-looks-to-add-ai-search-to-safari-in-potential-blow-for-google-report/articleshow/120971361.cms
  5. https://news.futunn.com/post/56516665/apple-is-brewing-a-major-overhaul-of-safari-targeting-ai?futusource=news_topic_page&lang=en-us