Google’s financial success is deeply intertwined with the iPhone, extending beyond its role as the default search engine on Apple’s devices. While the multi-billion-dollar annual payment to secure Google Search as the default option on iOS devices has long been a known fact, a recent revelation from the US vs. Google antitrust trial highlights the iPhone’s crucial role in fueling Google’s ad business.
The iPhone’s significance to Google’s revenue stream becomes evident when considering the immense profit generated through Google Search ads displayed during iPhone-related queries. This newfound insight reveals that the iPhone is one of the primary catalysts for ad results in Google Search. Whenever users click on these advertisements, Google’s pockets get a little heavier.
Google has often emphasized that ads appear on only about 20% of the queries conducted on Google Search, typically labeled as “commercial queries.” Notably, the search giant has been reluctant to share specific data regarding these commercial queries.
However, in the course of the antitrust trial, Google was compelled to disclose some of this information, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the iPhone’s role in Google’s ad business. During the trial, Judge Amit Mehta ordered the publication of a list showcasing the top 20 revenue-generating queries for the week of September 22, 2018.
Here are the top 20 queries as shared by Google, with iPhone-related terms prominently featured:
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 plus
- Auto insurance
- Car insurance
- Cheap flights
- Car insurance quotes
- Direct TV
- Online colleges
- AT&T
- Hulu
- iPhone
- Uber
- Spectrum
- Comcast
- Xfinity
- Insurance quotes
- Free credit report
- Cheap car insurance
- AARP
- LifeLock
While the number of queries and their respective revenues for that week remain redacted, it’s evident that the iPhone held the top two positions, with “iPhone” securing the 11th place. This iPhone-related surge in searches aligns with Apple’s annual tradition of releasing new iPhones in mid-September.
The data shared may cover a specific week, but the enduring consumer interest in the iPhone consistently contributes to Google’s ad revenue. The iPhone-related searches likely continue to bolster Google’s financial gains throughout the year.
While Google has not disclosed specific revenue figures for iPhone-related searches during that particular week in September, the undeniable reality is that the iPhone serves as a consistent and significant source of profit for the search giant, complementing the earnings derived from its default search arrangement with Safari. In essence, the iPhone plays a multi-faceted role in Google’s revenue model, showcasing the intricate relationship between tech giants.
