When it comes to browsing on an iPhone, most iPhone users are torn between two primary options: Chrome and Safari. This continuing battle has been fostered by Apple and Google’s convoluted relationship.
Apple recently launched an ad that gently challenges Google’s Chrome browser while highlighting Safari’s privacy features. While it does not outright encourage users to forsake Chrome, it does highlight the tracking cookies that Chrome uses, implying that Safari is “a browser that’s actually private.” But why is Apple promoting this narrative now?
According to a research by The Information, over 30% of iPhone users have Chrome as their default browser. Google intends to boost this to 50%, which would result in an additional 300 million iOS devices. In an era where app loyalty is a big income source, Apple is eager to maintain its dominance over iPhone browser usage.
Apple’s campaign focuses on two major flaws with Chrome.
Chrome makes extensive use of tracking cookies. Most of us have seen the pop-up solicitations to accept third-party cookies. Exploring Chrome’s privacy settings can show a shocking amount of sites that monitor your online behavior. According to Google’s Privacy Sandbox report, these tracking cookies will remain active until 2025.
Incognito Mode’s Lack of True Privacy – Despite Google’s claims regarding privacy in Incognito Mode, a $5 billion class-action lawsuit proved that this tool is not as private as users may believe.
Safari, on the other hand, addresses these issues from the beginning. It disables cross-site tracking by default and masks your IP address if you have an iCloud+ account. This has supplied Apple with abundant material to tout Safari’s benefits while raising worries about Chrome.
Google’s Response
In reaction to Apple’s ad campaign, a Google spokesman told a popular tech blog, Tom’s Guide that Chrome is designed to keep your data safe by default and provide customers discretion over when and how their data is used in Chrome to tailor their web browsing experience. We think that people should always have control, so we’ve included simple privacy and security settings right into Chrome.”
Will iPhone Users Switch From Chrome to Safari?
The battle for browser domination on the iPhone is more about Apple maintaining its advantage than Google catching up. Apple’s strategic focus on Chrome’s privacy flaws sends a strong message, particularly to new iPhone users or those who are ignorant of the degree of data tracking in Chrome.
Existing Chrome users may be aware of these privacy risks, but have accepted them. However, Apple’s advertising may affect individuals who value privacy, nudging them toward Safari.
We will continue to follow news about this and seek additional comments from Google and security experts.
GTC
