Yes. Safari on the iPhone lets you choose the search engine used when you type a search into the address bar. On current iOS versions, open Settings > Apps > Safari > Search Engine and choose one of the available providers.
Change Safari’s search engine
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps.
- Select Safari.
- Tap Search Engine.
- Choose the provider you want Safari to use.
On older iOS versions, Safari may appear directly in the main Settings list instead of under Apps.
This does not change your default browser
The search engine determines where Safari sends address-bar searches. Your default browser determines which browser opens compatible web links from other apps. These are separate settings.
Private Browsing can have its own search setting
Recent iOS versions can provide additional Safari search controls, including options related to Private Browsing. Review the Safari Search settings if private tabs appear to use different behavior.
Available choices can vary
The search-engine list can differ by region and iOS release. If a provider is not offered in Safari’s settings, you can still visit that search provider’s website directly or use its app when available.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.