Hua Er Jie Jian Wen·2025-05-07 15:57Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential shift in Apple's approach to its Safari browser and search engine partnerships, particularly in light of the ongoing legal challenges against Google's parent company, Alphabet. This shift is influenced by the rise of AI-driven search engines and changing user behaviors. Group 1: Apple's Strategic Considerations - Apple is "actively considering" revamping its Safari browser to focus on AI-driven search engines, which may alter its collaboration with Google [3] - The annual agreement between Apple and Google, valued at approximately $20 billion, positions Google as the default search engine on Apple devices [3] - Eddy Cue noted a decline in Safari's search volume in April, attributing it to users shifting towards AI search options [3] Group 2: AI Search Engine Landscape - Cue believes that AI search providers like OpenAI, Perplexity, and Anthropic could eventually replace traditional search engines like Google [3] - Apple is in discussions with Perplexity and plans to incorporate AI search options into Safari, although these may not become the default [3][5] - The transition from traditional to AI search is seen as inevitable due to ample capital and the size of the players involved [5] Group 3: Future of Technology and Competition - Cue emphasized the rapid pace of technological change, suggesting that devices like the iPhone may become obsolete in the future [4] - He stated that true competition arises only when significant technological changes occur, with AI representing a new wave of opportunity for new entrants [4] - Despite the potential for AI search engines, Cue still supports Google remaining as the default search engine for Safari, citing concerns over revenue sharing [5]