Apple is making waves with its exploration of AI-powered search alternatives to Google's default search engine on Safari. According to the Financial Times, this move could potentially disrupt Google's $20 billion annual agreement to remain the default search provider on Apple’s browser.
In response, Alphabet has accelerated its own AI search advancements. Notably, Google introduced an 'AI Mode' in March 2025, allowing users to handle complex queries with detailed AI-generated responses. Additionally, since May 2024, Google has offered AI-generated summaries through its 'AI Overviews' feature, enhancing user experience and keeping pace with AI competitors.
Alphabet's strategic efforts in AI are showing results, evidenced by its strong financial performance in Q1 2025. The company reported a 12% revenue increase, reaching $90.2 billion, with net income climbing 46% to $34.5 billion. However, as AP News highlights, Alphabet's journey isn't without challenges, facing regulatory scrutiny and tough competition from other AI-driven search services like those from OpenAI and Perplexity.