Home Google’s rumored $20 billion deal to stay on Apple’s Safari

Google’s rumored $20 billion deal to stay on Apple’s Safari

Search engine giant Google is reportedly paying a staggering amount to Apple, with figures ranging between $18 to $20 billion. According to a report by The Register, this payment, as suggested by market research firm Bernstein, is for Google to retain its position as the default search engine on Apple’s Safari browser.

The significance of being the default

Apple’s Safari browser, the primary choice for millions of iPhone and Mac users, plays a pivotal role in the digital ecosystem. Being the default search engine on such a platform is invaluable. For Google, this ensures its search services are at the forefront for Apple users, translating to increased traffic and potential advertising revenue.

While the specifics of the deal remain confidential, the benefits for both tech behemoths are evident. Apple gains a substantial revenue stream, while Google solidifies its dominance in the search engine sector.

This revelation comes at a time when Google faces antitrust scrutiny over its search engine dominance. Last month, the U.S. Department of Justice case against Google’s alleged anticompetitive tactics went to trial. Part of the lawsuit focuses on Google’s agreement with Apple to be the default search engine, arguing that such deals stifle competition.

“We believe there is a possibility that federal courts rule against Google and force it to terminate its search deal with Apple,” the Bernstein analyst told The Register. And while that would be an obvious blow to Google, the deal accounts for an estimated 14-16% of Apple’s annual operating profits, according to Bernstein.

Speculation about Google’s payments to Apple isn’t new. However, Bernstein’s recent estimate indicates one of the highest figures discussed publicly.

This purported payment underscores the fierce rivalry in the digital search market. As tech giants like Google and Apple strategize in the digital landscape, such agreements provide insight into their tactical moves.

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay; Pexels; Thank you!

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the tech industry for major developments, new product launches, AI breakthroughs, video game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to staff writers or freelance contributors with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Maxwell Nelson
Tech Journalist

Maxwell Nelson, a seasoned journalist and content strategist, has contributed to industry-leading platforms, weaving complex narratives into insightful articles that resonate with a broad readership.

Get the biggest tech headlines of the day delivered to your inbox

    By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe anytime.

    Tech News

    Explore the latest in tech with our Tech News. We cut through the noise for concise, relevant updates, keeping you informed about the rapidly evolving tech landscape with curated content that separates signal from noise.

    In-Depth Tech Stories

    Explore tech impact in In-Depth Stories. Narrative data journalism offers comprehensive analyses, revealing stories behind data. Understand industry trends for a deeper perspective on tech's intricate relationships with society.

    Expert Reviews

    Empower decisions with Expert Reviews, merging industry expertise and insightful analysis. Delve into tech intricacies, get the best deals, and stay ahead with our trustworthy guide to navigating the ever-changing tech market.