Have you ever been frustrated with search engines tracking your online activity or providing biased search results based on your browsing history? If so, you’re not alone. Many users are turning to privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo as an alternative to Google, Bing, and other default search engines on iOS and macOS devices. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to change your default search engine to DuckDuckGo on both platforms.
Changing Default Search Engine on iOS
Step 1: Download the DuckDuckGo App
The first step in changing your default search engine on iOS is to download the DuckDuckGo app from the App Store. Once you have installed the app, you will need to grant it permission to access your device’s location and send you notifications (if desired).
Step 2: Open Settings and Navigate to Safari
Next, navigate to your device’s Settings app and scroll down until you see the Safari option. Tap on this option to access the Safari settings.
Step 3: Select Search Engine
Within the Safari settings, you’ll see an option for “Search Engine”. Tap on this option to reveal the list of available search engines.
Step 4: Choose DuckDuckGo
Scroll through the list of available search engines until you see “DuckDuckGo”. Tap on this option to set it as your default search engine. You’re all set!
Changing Default Search Engine on macOS
Step 1: Open Safari Preferences
To change your default search engine on macOS, you’ll need to access the Safari preferences. Open the Safari app, click on the “Safari” menu in the top menu bar, and select “Preferences” from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Select Search
Within the Safari preferences, you’ll see a “Search” tab. Click on this tab to access the search engine options.
Step 3: Choose DuckDuckGo
Under the “Search” tab, you’ll see a drop-down menu for “Search engine”. Click on this drop-down menu and select “DuckDuckGo”. Close the preferences window, and you’re done!
Concluding Thoughts
Changing your default search engine to DuckDuckGo on iOS and macOS is a simple way to maintain your privacy and avoid biased search results. By taking a few minutes to follow the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your online activity remains private and secure.
FAQs about Changing Default Search Engine to DuckDuckGo on iOS and macOS
Can I use DuckDuckGo as my default search engine on other devices?
Yes! DuckDuckGo is available as a default search engine on a variety of platforms and devices, including desktop browsers, Android devices, and more.
Are there any downsides to using DuckDuckGo as my default search engine?
While DuckDuckGo is a great option for privacy-conscious users, it may not provide the same level of search accuracy or features as other search engines. Additionally, some websites may not be optimized for the DuckDuckGo search engine, which could result in reduced functionality or broken links.
Can I still use other search engines while DuckDuckGo is my default?
Absolutely! You can still use other search engines by simply navigating to their website instead of using your default search engine. Additionally, some browsers and apps allow you to switch between search engines on the fly, giving you more flexibility and options.
