Apple is shifting its efforts to develop a search engine that can offer users an alternative to Google, according to a Financial Times report .
The first buds of this effort are already visible in the latest version of iOS 14: Whereas in the past any search done through the operating system was actually routed to Google’s servers, now Apple first displays its own search results immediately after typing. Few have noticed the change, which is actually an encouraging sign for Apple. This is a kind of proof that the company is capable of developing an independent search technology that will not make users immediately search for ways to return to Google.
In addition, it seems that the activity of Apple’s Web Crawler, “Applebot” by name, has increased very recently. This too is a sign of an increased effort on the part of Apple to build a large and comprehensive database of websites, in order to be able to provide users with relevant search results. Recall that already in 2018, Apple managed to transfer to its ranks a number of key figures from Google, including John Giannandrea who was the head of the development team of the popular search engine.
Why is Apple now investing in the development of a standalone search engine? Beyond the constant rivalry between the two companies, commentators in the field attach great importance to the antitrust lawsuit recently filed against Google in the US. By default, searching the web on iPhones. If as a result of the lawsuit Apple could not continue to rely on Google services, it makes sense that the company would want to develop its own solution.
