Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

One argument I'd make is that it creates a race to the bottom. The fact they have a near search monopoly along with their data collection means they milk the highest amount of revenue per search compared to other search engines by a long margin.

To compete with that, other engines would need to be at least as aggressive in their data collection as well as trying to gain market share.

Obviously any other engine who uses principles like privacy as part of their mission are at an inherent disadvantage. Search engines can return meaningful adverts pretty much based on keywords used and location searched from- there isn't a "need" for all the other tracking and data collection other than profit.



Consider applying for YC's Summer 2026 batch! Applications are open till May 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: