DuckDuckGo launches extensions to set no-AI search as default, traffic jumps 30%

DuckDuckGo is capitalizing on the growing anti-AI sentiment with new browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox that make its no-AI search page (noai.duckduckgo.com) the default engine. Once set, users see a search experience free from AI-assisted answers, chat prompts, and AI-generated images. The move follows Google's major search revamp at I/O, where AI Overviews pushed traditional "10 blue links" below interactive AI-generated results. DuckDuckGo reports that traffic to its no-AI page was up nearly 30% week-over-week, with US iOS app installs peaking at 69.9% growth. The company notes that visits are averaging 84% above baseline, indicating a sustained shift rather than a spike. DuckDuckGo also plans to update its Privacy Essentials extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera with AI search controls. Notably, DuckDuckGo is not anti-AI overall—it still offers an AI chatbot and subscription plans with VPN and identity theft protection—but positions the no-AI option as a user choice.

The extensions ensure that even if users clear their browser history, their AI-free search preference is preserved when using the DuckDuckGo browser. This consistency is key as alternative search engines like Kagi also gain users disenchanted with Google's AI-first approach. The company reported that on May 28, 2026, traffic to the no-AI page hit a new high since Google's announcement. While DuckDuckGo's core business still includes AI features, the separate no-AI offering allows it to serve both privacy-focused users and those who prefer traditional search results without AI interference.