Apple’s default browser is Safari, and its default search engine is Google. Sometimes, we want to customize our experience, and it’s possible.
Step-by-step guide on how you can change search engine on iPad from Google to Yahoo, Bing, DuckDuckGo or Ecosia. (Safari Browser & Google Chrome)
Safari
Apple’s native browser, Safari, is the most popular choice for iPad users, and it does its job great.
The default search engine in Safari is Google, if by any reason you want to change it, you can do that. Just follow my steps:
- Launch the ‘Settings app‘ on your iPad.
- Scroll down and tap on ‘Safari’.
- Now, tap on ‘Search Engine’.
- You’ll see a list of options, including Google, Yahoo, Bing, DuckDuckGo, and Ecosia.
- Simply tap on the search engine you prefer.
By default, you can’t pick a different search engine on Safari, but you can buy a ‘xSearch for Safari’ extension, that will allow you to change search engines on Safari seamlessly.
Google Chrome
Here’s how you can change your default search engine in Chrome on your iPad:
- Open the ‘Chrome Browser’ on your iPad.
- Tap on the ‘three-dot menu’ in the top-right corner.
- Select ‘Settings’ from the drop-down menu.
- In the Settings menu, tap on ‘Search Engine’.
- Pick your favorite from the list of available search engines: Google, Yahoo, Bing, or DuckDuckGo.
- Once you’ve made your choice, just exit the settings, and you’re all set!
Unfortunately, on Google Chrome for iPad, you can’t add another search engine of your choice. You are limited to the options available in the provided list.
What If I Want Another Search Engine?
There are many search engines out there: Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, Ecosia, Qwant, Startpage, Brave Search, Baidu, etc.
There of course, are others that are limited in specific niches, like e-commerce(amazon.com, ebay.com, etc.) or videos (YouTube), etc.
If you want a custom search engine on your iPad I suggest you download Mozilla Firefox, which allows you to add any search engine.
Other Browsers For iPad To Consider
While Safari and Chrome are the most popular browsers on iPad, there are other options worth exploring. Each of these browsers allows you to change your default search engine so you can mix and match to find your perfect combination:
Firefox: Known for its speed and privacy features, Firefox is a solid choice for those who want a different browsing experience.
Microsoft Edge: If you’re already using Microsoft services, Edge is a great way to sync your browsing data across devices.
Brave: For those who prioritize privacy and security, Brave is a browser that blocks ads and trackers by default. Very popular in crypto communities.
All of these browsers offer different features and perks and even different search engines. E.g. if you use Brave Browser, you can choose other search engines like Qwant, Startpage, and Brave Search.
Best Search Engines for iPad
Well, if you are here to change the search engine, you must also be wondering which search engine is perfect for your iPad. So here’s our rundown of the four best iPad search engines:
- 1. Google
The most popular search engine – Google with more than 80% of market share. It’s fast with a massive database. Great tool for finding information, browsing the web or simply answering burning questions. Google also personalizes your search results based on your behavior, which some find concerning.
- 2. Bing
A noteworthy alternative to Google. Bing has gained popularity due to its new product – ChatGPT. Its strong integration with Microsoft services, voice search capabilities, and diverse search results, including helpful images and videos, make it a compelling option for those looking for a different option besides G.
- 3. Yahoo
Yahoo is a reliable choice for iPad users who prefer a taste of the classic web. With news, weather, finance, and other handy widgets, Yahoo keeps you informed and entertained.
- 4. DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo is known for its privacy. Making it an excellent choice for users that are concerned about online tracking and data privacy. It distinguishes itself by not storing user data, and providing clutter-free search results. The search engine won’t profile you. If you value anonymity online, this is the best option.
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I'm a writer and editor in iPads & Android Tablets, Windows Tablet section. I'm passionate about technology, especially about tablets. I'm on a mission to assist people in discovering their ideal tablets. In addition, I'm dedicated to producing helpful how-to guides and sharing top-notch tips and tricks. In my early carrier I founded and became and editor at worldoftablet and have been a guest author at many other tech blogs. In wolfoftablet I'm focusing on iPads, Tablets, Apple Pencil, Apps, Reviews, Buyers Guides and Tablet Accessories. In free time I like to play games on my PS5 or iOS.
