Alternative search engine DuckDuckGo is launching new browser extensions that allow users to set its no-AI search experience as their default. The extensions direct users to DuckDuckGo's AI-free search page, which lacks AI-assisted answers, chat prompts, and fewer AI images in the search results. Currently available for Chrome and Firefox users, the extensions are meant to provide a consistent AI-free search experience.
Since Google announced its AI-first revamp of its search engine in May, traffic to DuckDuckGo has been booming. Last week, web visits to its no-AI search page were up nearly 30% week-over-week, with U.S. app installs rising by 18.1%. The company notes that this trend is sustained, with visitors averaging 84% above the baseline.
The new extensions are not part of a broader anti-AI stance from DuckDuckGo, which still offers its own AI chatbot and subscription plan providing access to popular models and tools like VPN services. Instead, they cater to users who prefer an AI-free search experience amidst Google's shift towards AI-fueled productivity.
DuckDuckGo will soon update its original Privacy Essentials extensions for multiple browsers to include controls for AI search settings. This move aims to capitalize on the growing trend of users seeking alternative search engines and a more transparent online experience.
