DuckDuckGo is launching new browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox 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 does not include AI-assisted answers or chat prompts. This move comes as traffic to DuckDuckGo continues to climb following Google's announcement of its AI-first revamp of its search engine.
Since Google's announcement in May, DuckDuckGo has seen a significant increase in traffic. Web visits to its no-AI search page were up nearly 30% week-over-week, and U.S. app installs were up 18.1% week-over-week. The company noted that this trend followed news of Google's overhaul of its search engine, which now favors AI-generated search overviews instead of traditional links.
DuckDuckGo is positioning itself as a alternative for those who prefer a non-AI search experience. However, it's worth noting that the company still offers its own AI chatbot and subscription plan with access to popular models. The new extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox users, with updates planned for other browsers soon.
The growth in traffic to DuckDuckGo suggests a sustained shift towards alternative search engines that prioritize a non-AI experience. According to the company, visits to its no-AI search page averaged 84% above baseline levels, indicating a consistent trend rather than a one-time spike.
