big tech

Safari's Secret Deals: How Apple's Default Browser Locks Out Competition

Apple earns billions from Google's default search deal while restricting browser engine competition on iOS.

RNT Editorial··8 min read
Safari's Secret Deals: How Apple's Default Browser Locks Out Competition

In the U.S. Department of Justice's landmark antitrust case against Google, one number stood out above all others: $20 billion. That was the estimated annual payment Google made to Apple to remain the default search engine in Safari across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This single deal — representing approximately 36% of Google's total traffic acquisition costs — reveals how Apple's control of the default browser experience generates enormous revenue while potentially suppressing competition.

The arrangement, which dates back to at least 2005, ensures that every search query entered into Safari's address bar is routed to Google by default.

Key Takeaways

  • Google pays Apple an estimated $20 billion annually for Safari default search placement
  • Fewer than 5% of users ever change their browser defaults, per DOJ trial evidence
  • Apple's WebKit mandate means all iOS browsers are functionally reskinned versions of Safari
#apple#safari#antitrust#google#browser-competition

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