# **DuckDuckGo Enhances AI Search with Optional and Private Chat Features**
DuckDuckGo, the search engine that prioritizes user privacy, is advancing its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its offerings. Following the rollout of a private AI chat option last year, the company is broadening its AI features to present users with more useful, private, and optional AI-enhanced search tools.
## **Introducing Duck.ai: Private AI-Enhanced Search**
DuckDuckGo has unveiled **[Duck.ai](https://www.duck.ai/)**, a complimentary AI-enhanced search function that enables users to get AI-assisted answers without the need for an account. In contrast to various AI search tools that monitor user activity, DuckDuckGo guarantees that all interactions are kept confidential.
For users choosing AI-assisted searches, AI-generated replies will be visible **over 20% of the time**, while the standard search engine continues to serve as the main method for fetching information. This arrangement allows users to select between traditional search outcomes and AI-generated replies according to their preferences.
## **Improved AI Models for Enhanced Responses**
To bolster its AI functionalities, DuckDuckGo has adopted some of the latest AI models, such as:
– **GPT-4o mini** and **o3-mini** (OpenAI)
– **Meta Llama 3.3**
– **Mistral Small 3**
– **Claude 3 Haiku** (Anthropic)
These enhanced models deliver more precise and pertinent responses, thus elevating the overall search journey. Furthermore, DuckDuckGo has launched a **Recent Chats** feature that enables users to keep conversations stored locally on their devices for easy access.
## **Broadened AI-Assisted Answers Beyond the US**
Earlier, DuckDuckGo’s AI-assisted answers were mainly available for English-language queries from U.S. users. With this update, the company has broadened its AI-powered search outcomes to a wider audience, enhancing accessibility for a global user base.
## **Smooth Transition Between AI Chat and Traditional Search**
DuckDuckGo understands that users have various preferences when searching for information. Some users may prefer to initiate with AI chat and then revert to traditional search, while others might do the reverse.
To cater to both styles, DuckDuckGo has facilitated switching between AI chat and standard search results seamlessly. Users who wish to completely avoid AI can also **turn off AI features** altogether.
## **How to Utilize DuckDuckGo’s AI Features**
Users can tap into DuckDuckGo’s AI chatbot through several avenues:
– Visiting **[Duck.ai](https://www.duck.ai/)**
– Clicking on the optional **AI chat icons** found within DuckDuckGo’s search engine, browsers, or iOS widget
– Employing the **”!AI”** or **”!chat”** commands during any DuckDuckGo search
Additionally, users can personalize their AI experience by determining how often AI-powered answers should show up in their searches. Choices include:
– **Never** – No AI-generated replies
– **On-demand** – AI responses only when requested
– **Sometimes** (default) – AI replies appear sporadically
– **Often** – AI responses surface more than 20% of the time
## **Privacy and Upcoming AI Chat Initiatives**
DuckDuckGo maintains a strong focus on privacy. The company ensures that AI-assisted searches do not follow user behavior, and all dialogues are saved locally on their devices.
Currently, Duck.ai is free to use without a login requirement; however, users may face daily limits on AI chat interactions. In the future, DuckDuckGo may roll out a **paid plan** providing **higher limits and access to enhanced AI models**.
## **Concluding Remarks**
DuckDuckGo’s growth into AI-enhanced search signifies its dedication to delivering **private, user-centered, and customizable** search experiences. By incorporating AI chat capabilities while upholding robust privacy safeguards, the company presents a viable alternative to conventional search engines.
As AI technology progresses, DuckDuckGo’s strategy ensures that users can leverage AI-enhanced search tools without sacrificing their privacy. Whether you favor traditional search results or AI-assisted replies, DuckDuckGo allows you to select the experience that best aligns with your preferences.
Would you consider trying DuckDuckGo’s AI-enhanced search? Share your thoughts with us! 🚀
