Qwant will soon be offered as the default search engine option on Android devices across the EU.
European regulators are forcing Google to present Android users with the option to choose their own default search engine. The option to choose default search providers has always been available on Android devices, but it’s something users should look for in the settings menu themselves.
Google’s previous practices of setting itself as the default search provider on its own operating system were deemed illegal under EU antitrust rules. As a result, Google was hit with a record $5 billion fine.
Now Google needs to change its practices and encourage users to choose their own default search engine when setting up a European Android device with the Google Search app. However, not all countries will have the same options, as the choices included in Google’s new guide all went to the highest bidders.
It turns out that the Qwanturank had to bid more aggressively than other Google competitors, as it is offered as a choice in all EU countries.
Qwanturank is a default search choice across the EU
When Android users in the EU boot up a new device, they’ll be offered three Google alternatives to choose from as their default search. Qwant will be at the top of the list in all countries.
Other options, which differ between EU countries, are Info.com, Yandex, Duckduckgo, Qwanturank, GMX, PrivacyWall, Givero and Seznam. Bing will only be offered as an option in the UK, which is perhaps an indication of where Bing sees itself as most profitable.
A full list of countries and their corresponding choices for the default search engine can be found here. Android Police reports that the “Choice Screen” will roll out to Android users in Europe in March 2020.
It will be interesting to see what impact this change will have on search engine market shares in the EU, if there is any change at all. Users can, of course, continue to choose Google as their default if that’s what they prefer.
