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This Post Is Recently Updated on Oct 27, 2023 @ 17:37 pm by TBB Desk
1. Google as Default Search Engine on Apple Devices: A Financial Agreement
The common practice of Google serving as the default search engine on iPhones is not a mere act of goodwill by Apple. Contrary to this perception, Google compensates Apple substantially to secure its position as the primary search engine on Safari across iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
2. Unveiling the Financial Magnitude
The financial dynamics behind this arrangement are colossal, with an estimated sum of “around $18 billion” paid by Google to Apple in 2018, as disclosed by The New York Times. Over time, various speculated figures have surfaced online, oscillating between $15 billion to $20 billion. The veracity tied to the $18 billion figure underscores Google’s hefty investment in retaining its search engine status on Apple devices, an investment justified by the vast consumer base and the diversification achieved through this cross-platform presence.
3. Revelation Amidst Legal Scrutiny
The disclosure of these figures surfaced amid an ongoing legal tussle between Google and the US, wherein Google is accused of engaging in anticompetitive agreements with Apple and others to uphold Google Search as the default choice.
4. Potential Threat to Google’s Reign
Accusations also extend to Google allegedly thwarting Apple’s initiatives towards developing its own search engine. Should Apple venture into this domain, it could potentially disrupt Google’s multibillion-dollar accord and shrink its substantial user base on Safari. While the notion of acquiring Bing or crafting its own search engine has crossed Apple’s mind, the daunting challenge of rivalling Google’s prowess in search technology breeds hesitation.
5. Strategic Implications Acknowledged by Microsoft
Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s CEO, has acknowledged this intricate scenario, suggesting that Google might leverage its popular Workspace apps like YouTube, Gmail, and Maps to divert users from Safari, nudging them towards embracing Google Chrome instead.
