Apple Explores AI Search Integration in Safari

Apple Considers Integrating AI Search into Safari

Apple is exploring the integration of AI-powered search engines into its Safari browser. According to a Bloomberg report, the company is considering options like OpenAI, Perplexity, and Anthropic.

This news comes from Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, during his testimony in the U.S. Justice Department's lawsuit against Alphabet. The lawsuit concerns Apple's estimated $20 billion annual agreement with Google, making Google the default search engine in Safari.

Declining Safari Searches and the Rise of AI

Cue revealed that Safari searches declined for the first time last month. He attributes this decline to the growing popularity of AI search tools.

Cue believes AI search engines will eventually replace traditional search engines like Google. This belief is driving Apple's exploration of integrating these services into Safari. However, he noted that these AI-powered options likely won't become the default search engine immediately, as they still require further development.

Apple has already initiated discussions with Perplexity, according to Cue.