Google's plan to replace traditional search links with AI overviews has sparked user backlash, driving a surge in downloads for privacy-focused competitor DuckDuckGo. DuckDuckGo reported a 33% average weekly increase in U.S. iOS installs, with peaks near 70%, as users seek alternatives that offer control over AI features. The move presents an opportunity to challenge Google's market dominance, with critics arguing Google's forced AI integration degrades search quality.