Show HN: A Not-For-Profit, Ad-Free, AI-Free Search Engine with DuckDuckGo Bangs
Published:Dec 29, 2025 05:25
•1 min read
•Hacker News
Analysis
This Hacker News post introduces "nilch," an open-source search engine aiming to provide a non-commercial alternative to mainstream options. The creator emphasizes the absence of ads and AI, prioritizing user privacy and control. A key feature is the integration of DuckDuckGo bangs for enhanced search functionality. Currently, nilch relies on the Brave search API, but the long-term vision includes developing a completely independent, open-source index and ranking algorithm. The project's reliance on donations for sustainability presents a challenge, but the positive feedback from Reddit suggests potential community support. The call for feedback and bug reports indicates a commitment to iterative improvement and user-driven development.
Key Takeaways
Reference
“I noticed that nearly all well known search engines, including the alternative ones, tend to be run by companies of various sizes with the goal to make money, so they either fill your results with ads or charge you money, and I dislike this because search is the backbone of the internet and should not be commercial.”