As traffic to DuckDuckGo soars, the company is launching new browser extensions that offer users an “AI-free” search experience. The no-AI search page directs users away from AI-assisted answers, chat prompts, and fewer AI images in results.
This comes amidst Google’s overhaul of its search engine with a heavy emphasis on AI-generated content, which has prompted some to seek alternatives like DuckDuckGo. Since the announcement, visits to DuckDuckGo’s no-AI page have increased by 30% week-over-week, with U.S. app installs up by 18.1%.
DuckDuckGo is also updating its Privacy Essentials extensions to offer controls for AI search settings, ensuring users can maintain their desired level of human interaction in searches. Notably, DuckDuckGo remains pro-AI in other areas, offering an AI chatbot and subscription plans that provide access to the latest models.
The company claims this move is about giving users a consistent no-AI experience, reflecting a broader trend where people are seeking more traditional search results amid the increasing complexity of AI-driven searches. As Google’s changes continue to roll out, it remains to be seen if DuckDuckGo can cement its position as an AI-free alternative.







