They are relying on those and more. The difference is you actually get the results you wanted, not ads or paid search placements.

You should try Kagi.

Same here, happy Kagi subscriber 👍

I don’t think that’s how to look at it. There’s clearly something less than optimal about having these huge gatekeepers (as I believe is the term used) and the EU is trying to limit their power.

I’m generally ok with them requiring basic security and privacy protections through the notarization.

Perhaps Kagi would work for you? https://help.kagi.com/kagi/features/website-info-personalized-results.html