Android phones often come shipped with Google as their default search engine. However, you’re free to choose the search engine you wish to use as the default. So, how can you change the search engine on your Android phone?
You can change the search engine on your Android device in several ways. One way is to go to your browser’s settings and change it. You can also change it by replacing the widget on your device’s home screen. Also, you can change the Google Assistant on your Android device to a virtual search engine of your choice.
Undoubtedly, Google services have been integrated deeply into Android devices, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use another search engine as a preference. And despite Google owning Android, you can still use a third-party search engine of your choice on it.
So, if you’re interested in changing the search engine on your Android, read on. We will cover the different ways you can actualize this feat.
How To Change the Search Engines in Web Browsers
One of the ways you can change the default search engine on your Android is through the local browser. Most Android devices, especially those with stock Android, come with Chrome as their default web browser.
You can change the search engine of Chrome from its settings. But if the local browser on your device is not Chrome, the steps highlighted below will still work either way.
- Open Chrome on your Android device.
- Tap on the menu (three dots) icon at the top right corner of the browser window.
- Click “Settings“.
- Tap on “Search Engine” under the basic setting options.
- The search engine is likely Google, but you can change it to any option you like.
When you select the new search engine you want, you can tap on the back button and try browsing through the search bar on Chrome to confirm it has successfully changed.
How To Change the Search Engines in a Widget
Another option when you want to change the search engine on your device is through the widget. On the home screen of most Android phones is a Google search bar that users can use to find what they need online.
If you love the idea of a home screen search bar but don’t want to use Google, you can change it.
Unlike the local browser method where we changed settings, this widget is powered by Google, so it doesn’t give you the option to change the search engine. Hence, you need to follow the steps below to change the search engine of your device widget.
- Remove the Google search widget by long-pressing on the bar and tapping on the cross (x) icon or when it pops up.
- Download a new browser through the Play Store.
- Long-press an empty area on your Android home screen until the editing option pops up; click on “Widets” or “Add Widgets“.
- Locate and select the widget for the browser you downloaded.
It will pop up on your home screen, which you can adjust for size, and then you’re all done.
How To Change the Search Engines of Your Virtual Assistant
Another way to change your device’s search engine is by using a virtual assistant. Google Assistant is the virtual assistant for Android devices developed by Google. Many third-party virtual assistants provide the same service as Google assistants you could install. Follow the steps below to change the search engine of your virtual assistant.
- Download and install the virtual assistant of your choice.
- Go to Settings > “Apps & Notifications“.
- Find the default app and select it (you may have to expand the advanced section to see the following option).
- Look for “Digital Assistant App“, click on it, and select the search engine you want.
- Select “OK” to confirm.
Conclusion
In summary, one thing about Android devices is that they are highly customizable. Even though Google, the owner of a significant search engine, is the producer of Android, they still give users the ability to use any search engine they desire.
