According to reports, Samsung is in talks with Microsoft to replace Google with Bing on its Galaxy smartphones and tablets. While the two companies have not confirmed the rumors, the move would make sense for both parties. Samsung has been looking to reduce its reliance on Google’s software and services, and Microsoft has been trying to increase its share of the mobile search market.
Samsung currently uses Google as the default search engine on its Galaxy devices, which account for about a fifth of the global smartphone market. However, the South Korean company has been developing its own search engine, which it plans to launch later this year. Samsung has also been promoting its own apps and services, such as Samsung Pay and Bixby, its digital assistant, in an effort to reduce its dependence on Google.
Meanwhile, Microsoft’s Bing has struggled to gain traction in the mobile search market, where Google dominates with a market share of over 90%. Bing’s share of the global search market is just 2.8%, according to StatCounter. By partnering with Samsung, Microsoft could gain access to millions of new users and potentially increase its market share.
The move could also benefit Samsung, which has been facing increasing pressure from regulators and consumers over its close relationship with Google. The company has been accused of anti-competitive behavior, and there have been calls for it to open up its platform to other search engines and apps. By partnering with Microsoft, Samsung could show that it is willing to work with other companies and give users more choice.
However, it remains to be seen whether Samsung’s users will embrace the switch to Bing. Many users have become accustomed to using Google, and may not be willing to switch to a new search engine. Bing also has a reputation for providing less accurate search results than Google, which could be a turn-off for users.
Another potential hurdle for the Samsung-Bing partnership is the issue of data privacy. Google has come under fire in recent years for its data collection practices, and many users may be concerned about Microsoft’s own data collection practices. Samsung would need to address these concerns and reassure users that their data is safe and secure.
In conclusion, the rumored partnership between Samsung and Microsoft could be a game-changer in the search market, potentially giving Bing a much-needed boost and putting Google’s dominance in jeopardy. However, it remains to be seen whether users will embrace the switch to Bing, and whether Samsung can address concerns around data privacy.