Uruky: EU-based search engine alternative with image search and URL rewrites

What it does

Uruky is a private search engine based in the EU. It performs web searches without ads or tracking. Users can customize their search experience by excluding or boosting specific domains. The service includes an image search function and URL rewrite capabilities. Uruky does not offer AI summaries, news feeds, or generative features.

Who it is for

Uruky targets users who prioritize privacy and want to avoid ad-based search. The service appeals to people willing to pay for search rather than accept tracking-based monetization. It suits users comfortable with a straightforward search interface who value domain-level customization over AI-powered results.

Pricing

European account pricing is €5 per month with no automatic renewal. Uruky offers a 14-day money-back guarantee. A free 2-hour trial is available after solving a proof-of-work captcha when topping up an account for the first time. After 12 months as a paying customer, users receive a copy of the service's source code.

How it stands out

Uruky operates as a paid service rather than an ad-supported platform, removing the typical incentive to track user behavior. The EU-based infrastructure covers servers, storage, payments, and search providers. The service deliberately avoids AI and LLM features that competitors increasingly emphasize. Billing follows a non-subscription model with no forced recurring charges, differentiating it from traditional SaaS pricing. The planned source-available license using PolyForm Shield offers transparency while preventing direct competitive copying.

What a founder should check

First, examine the competitive moat against established paid search alternatives. Kagi launched years earlier and has built a larger user base; founder interviews mention Uruky as rougher than Kagi in execution. Understand what technical advantages or differentiation justify a new entrant in this small market.

Second, measure switching costs and user stickiness. Paid search engines compete primarily on features and search quality. Without AI summaries or advanced features, retention depends on search result quality and customization. Verify whether Uruky's underlying search providers and ranking algorithms create measurable quality advantages over existing competitors.

Third, analyze pricing pressure in the paid search category. At €5 monthly, the service targets price-conscious privacy users. The addressable market for paid search remains niche. Determine whether sufficient customers exist willing to pay ongoing fees, and whether competitors can undercut pricing or add features that compress margins.

Thinking of building something like this?

Every launch here is a competitor to somebody's idea. If yours is close, check it against the market before you build: the Full Check names the rivals, the prices and the gaps.