DuckDuckGo Installs Spike as Google Moves to Replace Search With AI

Google’s AI-first search push is drawing backlash over hallucinations and tighter control of results.

DuckDuckGo says the reaction is sending more users its way, with U.S. installs up 30% week over week.

The company also saw more traffic to its AI-free search page, as some users look for a classic web search alternative.

The trend suggests Google’s overhaul could push some searchers toward competitors if AI replaces traditional links too aggressively.