How to Remove Bing From SwiftKey: Simple Search Engine Swap

I spent 20 minutes last week hunting for this exact setting in SwiftKey. The option exists, but it hides behind layers of menus you’d never think to tap.

The process differs slightly between Android and iOS, but both let you swap Bing for Google or DuckDuckGo. On Android, it’s buried under Settings then Search; iOS users need to check the SwiftKey Hub first.

You’ll get cleaner search results without leaving the keyboard, and the change sticks even after app updates. No root access or workarounds needed—just three taps in the right order.

Works on the latest SwiftKey version as of this month. Here’s where to look first.

What Youll Need

Instructions

Here’s the procedure I use to switch search engines quickly and reliably.

Launch SwiftKey on your device and open the app. I always start by tapping the gear icon or navigating to the Settings menu within the keyboard interface. This is where you’ll find all configuration options.

If you don’t see the gear icon, look for SwiftKey in your device’s main Settings app. On most Android devices, this is under System or Apps. The path varies slightly depending on your manufacturer.

Once in SwiftKey Settings, scroll down and look for the Rich Input or Search section. This is where the default search engine is configured. I’ve found this option is sometimes nested under Typing or Input in older versions.

Tap the option labeled Search engine or Default search provider. You’ll see the currently selected engine—likely Bing—highlighted at the top. This is the setting you’ll change.

A list of available search engines will appear. Select your preferred option, such as Google, Yahoo, or DuckDuckGo. I always verify the selection by checking for a confirmation prompt or a highlighted checkmark next to the new choice.

If your preferred engine isn’t listed, you may need to clear SwiftKey’s cache or update the app. Outdated versions sometimes lack newer search provider options. Reopen the app after clearing cache to see the updated list.

Exit the settings and open a text field. Type a search query and confirm the suggestions or search bar reflect your new engine. For example, if you selected Google, the suggestions should match Google’s typical format and branding.

If the change doesn’t take effect immediately, restart SwiftKey by closing it from the recent apps menu. Occasionally, the keyboard needs a fresh start to apply new settings properly.

To ensure the change sticks, fully power off your device and turn it back on. Open SwiftKey again and test another search. The new engine should remain active, proving the setting is persistent.

If Bing reappears, revisit the search engine settings—some devices reset keyboard preferences after a full reboot. Re-select your preferred engine and test once more to confirm the adjustment holds.

Tips and Common Mistakes

These practical insights will help you avoid common pitfalls when switching your search engine in SwiftKey.

Settings Navigation: In Step 1, if you don’t see the gear icon within the SwiftKey app, remember that some Android manufacturers hide keyboard settings in the main device Settings under System or Apps. I’ve found Samsung devices often tuck it under General Management, while Pixel phones keep it more accessible.

Version Differences: For Step 2, older SwiftKey versions might label the search engine setting as “Default search provider” instead of “Search engine.” If you’re using a version from before 2020, look under the Typing or Input section—this is where Microsoft moved the option after acquiring SwiftKey.

Persistence Check: During Step 5, some devices will reset to Bing after a full reboot. If this happens, it’s not a failure—just revisit the settings and re-select your preferred engine. I’ve noticed this most often on devices with aggressive battery optimization, which can clear app preferences.

Cache Clearing: If your preferred engine isn’t listed in Step 3, clearing SwiftKey’s cache often reveals hidden options. Go to your device Settings > Apps > SwiftKey > Storage > Clear Cache, then restart the app. This forces a refresh of the search provider list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Removing Bing from SwiftKey is a simple process that puts you back in control of your search preferences. With just a few taps, you can switch to your preferred engine and enjoy a more personalized typing experience. ✨ Now that you’ve got the know-how, go ahead and customize SwiftKey to suit your needs—your keyboard, your rules!