Apple's Safari tests code to track Google Chrome/Google app promotions

Safari's New Tracking Capabilities

Apple has incorporated code into Safari, starting with iOS 27.2 beta 2, that can identify when Google displays promotional banners for Chrome or the Google app on its search pages. The feature also monitors how users engage with these promotions, such as whether they interact with the banner or dismiss it.

Mechanism of Detection

The system works by injecting a JavaScript script into specific Google home and search results pages. This script searches for visible promotional banners or other Google page elements designed to encourage users to install or open Chrome or the Google app. Safari then looks for associated links, including custom URL schemes and App Store IDs, and logs events like banner display, user sign-in status, and interaction type (accepted or dismissed).

Context of Regulatory Scrutiny

This testing emerges during a period of increased regulatory examination of browser competition. Regulators in the UK and the EU are investigating practices that might influence user choices between Safari and rival browsers. Google has previously cited its Chrome promotions to iPhone users as evidence of competition, while the European Commission has scrutinized Apple's compliance with Digital Markets Act requirements concerning browser choice.

Implications and Future Plans

It is currently unclear why Apple is testing this feature or how the collected data might be used. The data could serve Apple's own interests or be part of an effort to address growing regulatory concerns about browser market dynamics. As of iOS 27.2 beta 3 and Safari 27.2 beta release notes, Apple has not publicly disclosed or documented this new functionality.