The Cliqz browser aimed to offer an alternative to the market leaders Google, Microsoft, and Mozilla, and placed particular emphasis on user privacy. Now, majority shareholder Hubert Burda Media has pulled the plug.
Cliqz was founded in 2008 by Jean-Paul Schmetz. His goal was to give users full control over their data. In May 2013, Hubert Burda Media acquired a majority stake in the company. Burda is now closing Cliqz's main branch with the browser.
However, the anti-tracking plugin Ghostery, which Cliqz acquired a good three years ago, will remain. Burda also plans to form a team of experts from Cliqz to address technical issues such as artificial intelligence and the influence of technology on media.
“We have no chance in the long term against an overwhelming opponent like Google”
"With our innovations, we have proven that it is technically possible to counter the dominant US tech platforms with privacy-friendly products made in Germany. We have developed and operated a completely independent search engine, clearly differentiating ourselves from many others whose products are not based on their own technologies. Burda has supported us intensively over the years and, with great courage and optimism, helped us make our vision a reality."
says Cliqz founder Jean-Paul Schmetz.
"However, we have no long-term chance against an overwhelming opponent like Google, which dominates and isolates the market in every respect. We deeply regret having to say goodbye to colleagues who supported us in our vision with great commitment and passion."
What about the data protection-compliant advertising platform Myoffrz What will happen next is not yet clear. Burda is considering integrating it into the group.
