To change the default search engine in the Chrome app on an iPhone, open Chrome, tap the … menu, choose Settings, tap Search Engine, and pick the one you want (Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo and others). That engine is then used for searches you type in the address bar. The change stays in Chrome only; Safari and other apps keep their own settings.
Quick Answer
Chrome > … menu > Settings > Search Engine > tap your choice.
Steps to Change the Search Engine
- Open the Chrome app.
- Tap the … menu (bottom right, or top right on iPad).
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Search Engine.
- Tap the engine you want. A tick marks the current choice.
Good to Know
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Where it applies | Address-bar searches in the Chrome app |
| Other apps | Safari and widgets keep their own search engine |
| Recently visited engines | Chrome may list sites you’ve searched on |
| Sync | Signed-in Chrome can sync the setting across devices |
Troubleshooting
- Engine you want isn’t listed: Visit and search on that site once; it may then appear in the list.
- Change didn’t stick: Update Chrome, then set it again.
- Meant Safari: See setting the Safari search engine on iPhone.
- On a Mac: See changing the Safari search engine on a Mac.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this change my iPhone’s default browser?
No. It only changes the search engine inside Chrome. The default browser is set in iPhone Settings.
Will my searches be private?
That depends on the engine you choose. DuckDuckGo, for example, focuses on privacy.
Can I set a custom engine?
Chrome offers the built-in list on iPhone; custom engines are more limited than on desktop.
Summary
- Open Chrome’s Settings.
- Tap Search Engine.
- Choose your engine.
- It applies to address-bar searches in Chrome.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.