macOS Sequoia introduces a feature that shares your Safari and Spotlight search queries with Apple. This data helps Apple improve search suggestions and personalize your experience. While this can be beneficial, some users might prefer to keep their search activity private. Fortunately, macOS Sequoia offers a straightforward way to disable this feature.
Understanding the Data Sharing
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand what data is being shared. Apple states that this feature focuses on search queries, not the actual websites you visit. The goal is to enhance the search experience by providing more relevant suggestions and results. However, the idea of any search data leaving your device can raise privacy concerns for some users.
Disabling Safari and Spotlight Search Sharing
The process to disable this sharing feature is simple and can be done within System Settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open System Settings: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select “System Settings.”
- Navigate to Privacy & Security: In System Settings, find and click on the “Privacy & Security” option.
- Select Search Suggestions: Within the Privacy & Security menu, scroll down and find “Search Suggestions.” Click on it.
- Toggle the Switch: You’ll see a toggle switch next to “Include Spotlight Suggestions.” This controls whether your Spotlight searches are shared with Apple. To disable sharing, toggle this switch to the off position.
- Safari Suggestions: In the same Search Suggestions menu, you’ll also see an option related to Safari. Toggle the switch next to “Include Safari Suggestions” to the off position to stop sharing your Safari search queries with Apple.
Considerations and Alternatives
Disabling this feature means Apple will no longer use your search queries to personalize your search experience. You might notice a slight difference in the relevance of search suggestions. However, your actual search results should remain unaffected.
If privacy is a major concern, disabling this feature is a good step. You can still use Safari and Spotlight normally, but your search data will remain on your device. For even greater privacy, consider using a privacy-focused search engine like DuckDuckGo.
