DuckDuckGo has launched No-AI Search extensions for Chrome and Firefox amid rising demand for AI-free browsing options following Google's AI updates.
Overview
- Following Google's recent updates to its AI search system, DuckDuckGo has seen a significant increase in traffic to its AI-free search subdomain, with visits tripling and remaining 84% above normal levels.
- In response, DuckDuckGo introduced No-AI Search extensions for Chrome and Firefox on June 1, allowing users to set their default search engine to an AI-free version.
- The company also reported a surge in app installations in the U.S.
In 2024, DuckDuckGo has focused on developing Duck.ai, a private chatbot that allows anonymous interactions with models from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Meta. Recently, it launched a Chrome extension aimed at helping users avoid AI features entirely.
The No-AI Search extension directs users to noai.duckduckgo.com, which offers the same search results without AI-generated content, including images and summaries. A Firefox version was released simultaneously.
“Since Google announced its AI search updates, traffic to our 'No AI' search page has tripled, and it continues to grow!”
— DuckDuckGo (@DuckDuckGo) May 29, 2026
For users who prefer to selectively disable AI features, DuckDuckGo offers a Privacy Essentials extension that blocks trackers while allowing for customization.
This move by DuckDuckGo coincides with Google’s announcement of its significant search updates in May, which have drawn criticism for removing traditional search results in favor of AI-driven responses. DuckDuckGo CEO Gabriel Weinberg expressed his concerns, stating that Google is enforcing AI usage without offering an opt-out.
On May 28, traffic to DuckDuckGo's noai page reached a new high, maintaining an average 84% increase since then. App installations in the U.S. also saw an 18.1% week-over-week rise, with iOS installations peaking at 69.9% on one day, according to TechCrunch.
Additionally, DuckDuckGo is not alone in addressing anti-AI sentiment. Brave launched its Brave Origin browser in April, offering a simplified version without AI features for a one-time fee of $59.99. This approach appeals to users looking for a more straightforward browsing experience.
Mozilla is taking a different route with Project Nova, which will allow users to disable all AI features with a single toggle. However, it will continue to provide AI tools for those who wish to use them, presenting an “off by default” option as a competitive advantage.
Despite its push for AI-free options, DuckDuckGo still offers Duck.ai, which provides access to various AI models, and DuckAssist, which generates AI-driven search summaries. This reflects a nuanced approach to AI, emphasizing user choice in engagement with AI technologies.
In summary, DuckDuckGo and its competitors are responding to a growing demand for software that allows users to opt out of AI features, signaling a shift in user preferences regarding technology interaction.
