Source: iMore
What you need to know
- A new report says Apple is working on its own search engine.
- It reiterates previous rumors Apple might be looking to cut ties with Google.
- The report says this is driven, at least in part, by antitrust scrutiny of the giant.
A new report from the Financial Times has reiterated that Apple is working on its own search engine and that there are signs of the change already in iOS 14.
From the report:
Apple is stepping up efforts to develop its own search technology as US antitrust authorities threaten multibillion-dollar payments that Google makes to secure prime placement of its engine on the iPhone.
In a little-noticed change to the latest version of the iPhone operating system, iOS 14, Apple has begun to show its own search results and link directly to websites when users type queries from its home screen.
The report says the change is further evidence Apple is looking to build "a rival to Google's search engine". The report reflects news earlier in October noting that Apple is hiring in key areas of expertise pertaining to searching the web. That report further cited the fact that Apple's current deal with Google is nearing an end, and that antitrust scrutiny may ultimately put a stop to it anyway.
FT notes how iOS 14 has "nudged aside Google for certain search functions" including searching in 'Today View', which shows an Apple-generated list of results, rather than Google.
FT further reiterates that Apple has a "growing incentive" not to stick with Google as the default search engine on iPhone because of antitrust scrutiny, noting the DoJ holds Google's annual payments of between $8bn and $12bn as crucial to its antitrust case against the company. One commentator noting Apple would have to walk a fine line in explaining why it takes these payments, and that the Department of Justice could simply "demand an end to the exclusive agreement."
The report notes that some onlookers remain dismissive of the notion, a Columbia Business School professor stating it would "extremely difficult" for Apple to catch up to established search engines, citing Google's massive advantage in terms of scale.
You can read the full report here.
iOS gaming recap: PlayStation makes big moves into iOS, Streets of Rage 4
Besides some new games, a huge game maker discussed its plans to move into the mobile space, although it's unclear when. Here's what else you missed this week.
GRAMMY-winning music producer lauds his Mac Studio but still wants Mac Pro
GRAMMY-winning music producer Mike Dean, who has worked with the likes of Kanye, Selena Gomez, and Madonna has taken to Instagram to wax lyrical about his M1 Ultra Mac Studio while still lamenting the fact that he can't buy an Apple silicon Mac Pro.
Review: You really ought to check out Catalyst Black for iOS
Catalyst Black is an online multiplayer game that has teams compete against each other to score points and take down opponents. It has both sci-fi and fantasy elements since players can turn into large beasts to do additional damage.
These accessories will go great with your Apple AirTags
Apple's AirTag doesn't have any hooks or adhesive for attaching to your precious items. Luckily there are plenty of accessories for that purpose, both from Apple and third parties.