However, the real challenge proved to be convincing users to switch to a new search engine. Neeva faced numerous obstacles, including Google’s billion-dollar deals to secure default search engine status on various devices, intrusive pop-ups questioning users’ desire to change search engines or browsers, and the difficulty of finding relevant settings. The uphill battle for any new search engine is formidable.
Neeva differentiated itself by offering a paid product instead of relying on ads and surveillance for monetization. According to the co-founders, persuading users to pay for a better search experience was less challenging than convincing them to adopt a new search engine in the first place. Additionally, the economic climate presented difficulties, ultimately leaving Neeva without a viable business path forward.
