Based on DuckDuckGo’s public announcement.

DuckDuckGo announces public vote on AI optionality via social media
Screenshot · DuckDuckGo public announcement

DuckDuckGo has launched a public online vote asking users where they stand on artificial intelligence, as debates continue over how deeply AI should be integrated into everyday digital products.

The campaign highlights a growing concern among users who feel that AI features are increasingly enabled by default, often without a clear opt-out or meaningful choice.

“Did Anyone Give You a Choice?”

In its message, DuckDuckGo states that while some people welcome AI, others prefer not to use it, and many remain undecided. According to the company, the problem is not AI itself, but the lack of user control over how and when it is applied.

The public vote, hosted on a dedicated website, asks a simple question: where do you stand on AI? DuckDuckGo says every response helps make the case that AI features should remain optional rather than forced.

DuckDuckGo’s Approach to AI

DuckDuckGo has positioned itself as a privacy-first alternative to mainstream search engines and browsers. The company argues that users should decide how AI shows up in their digital lives, rather than having it embedded automatically across products.

Unlike many platforms racing to deploy AI at scale, DuckDuckGo claims optionality and transparency should be the default when introducing new AI-powered tools.

Why It Matters

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in browsers, operating systems, and online services, questions around consent, data use, and user agency are becoming harder to ignore.

DuckDuckGo’s vote reflects a broader push for giving users clearer choices over emerging technologies that can impact privacy, autonomy, and trust.

Original source: DuckDuckGo – Vote Yes or No on AI