In a decision that will send shock waves through the algorithms of Google’s search engine, AT&T has picked Yahoo search as the default search engine for the Motorola Backflip.
The Backflip is AT&T’s first Google Android powered phone, but according to AT&T, the Android OS will be the only thing that is powered by Google!
The web site Android and Me quotes this hands-on report from Engadget:
Yahoo has replaced Google as the default search provider throughout the phone. It’s crazy: the home screen widget, the browser, everything’s been programmed to use Yahoo.
Indeed, a Yahoo spokesperson confirms for Search Engine Land that AT&T is using its search services on the Backflip:
We are happy that AT&T has chosen Yahoo! Search as the default mobile search service on the Motorola Backflip, AT&T’s first Android device. We have a long-standing relationship with AT&T and more than 80 carrier partnerships around the world for our award-winning mobile search experience. Mobile is a key corporate priority for Yahoo! and we are focused on making our personally relevant mobile Internet services, like search, available to the broadest audience possible on the widest range of devices.