Apple is working on adding AI-powered search to its Safari browser. This comes as a U.S. court might stop Google from paying Apple $20 billion a year to be Safari’s default search engine. If the deal ends, Apple needs a backup plan.
Eddy Cue, Apple’s services chief, told the court that people are using AI tools like ChatGPT more for searches. In April 2025, Safari searches dropped for the first time ever. Cue thinks AI could replace traditional search engines like Google.
Why the Google Deal Matters
Billions at Stake
Google pays Apple $20 billion yearly to be the default search engine on iPhones and Macs. This money is a big part of Apple’s income. If the court stops this deal, Apple loses that cash.
Cue said this keeps him awake at night. “It’s a lot of money,” he admitted. But Apple is preparing for change by talking to AI companies.
How AI Search Would Work in Safari
Apple wants to add AI search options from companies like:
- OpenAI (which makes ChatGPT)
- Perplexity AI (a startup)
- Anthropic (another AI firm)
These tools would let you ask questions in plain English. For example, you don’t have to type “best pizza near me”; you can simply ask, “Where can I grab a cheesy pepperoni pizza tonight?” The AI would give a direct answer, not just links.
Cue said these AI tools won’t replace Google right away. They will be optional. Google’s own AI, called Gemini, might also come to iPhones later in 2025.
Problems With AI Search
AI tools like ChatGPT sometimes make up answers or use old info. Cue said Apple is pushing these companies to improve their data and accuracy.
For example, if you ask, “When did the iPhone 16 come out?” the AI needs to know the exact date (September 2024), not guess. Apple also wants AI to handle image searches. Right now, Safari uses Google Lens for camera-based searches, but that might change if the Google deal ends.
What Happens Next
The court will soon rule whether or not Google can continue paying Apple. If not, then Apple may accelerate its plans for AI.
Here’s what could change for iPhone users:
- New Search Choices: Safari may allow you to choose from Google, ChatGPT, or Perplexity.
- Smarter Answers: AI could explain complex topics in simple language.
- Fewer Ads: AI answers might reduce the need for search ads, hurting Google’s profits.
Following Cue’s comments, Google’s stock fell 7 percent. Investors are worried that Google could lose billions over Apple’s move.
Will AI Search Be Better?
There are individuals who love AI tools for instant answers. Others find them unreliable. Apple’s challenge is to turn AI search into something useful and correct. According to Bloomberg, if Apple manages to succeed, neuromorphic technology could make Safari the first browser that combines traditional and AI search. For the time being, the destiny of online browsers is in the hands of one court ruling and what Apple will do next.