Google Pixel Launcher, like many other Android launchers, includes an exceptionally useful comprehensive search tool that allows you to search settings, programs, contacts, and even the Internet with a single click.
The recently announced beta 3 of Android 14 QPR 2 has revealed an intriguing hidden feature in Pixel Launcher named “Search Engine”. Its description is clear and straightforward: “Decide which applications you’ll utilize to search the web. This will have an impact on both search functionality and home screen content.”
Although there is no official confirmation, it appears like Google is allowing users to change the default search engine on Pixel Launcher. Bing, DuckDuckGo, and other major companies may soon enter the Pixel environment, which is fundamentally limited to Google Search.
This information was provided by @Nail_Sadykov, a reputable technology leak specialist on Twitter. Along with that, he shared equally intriguing discoveries on the Chrome browser. Users discovered “Search engine choice” flags in Chrome, along with a statement suggesting that enabling the flag would alter the initial setup process, allowing them to select the search engine from the start.
Of course, this invites a lot of conjecture. However, we must remember that Google is presently facing a massive antitrust action, with the US Department of Justice and the attorneys general of eight states accusing it of establishing a monopoly in the search engine business, with market share ranging from 90-95%. The $10 billion annual contract with Apple to keep the default position on iOS bolsters this claim.
We feel that the current adjustments to Pixel Launcher are connected to increased regulatory pressure. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether this is the final halt in Google’s campaign to retain its “monopoly” on the Play Store.
