Google's contract with Apple to be the default search provider is due to expire in early 2015, according to Digital Spy.

The allure of additional traffic from iPhones and iPads searching on the Safari browser could change hands if Yahoo and Microsoft have their way.

According to The Information, both companies have been in talks with Apple's senior vice president of internet software and services Eddy Cue about replacing Google.

There is also the chance that Apple could develop its own search function, following the trend set in 2012 with the launch of Apple Maps. Ultimately, Apple may choose to stick with Google altogether.

Losing its contract would be another blow to Google, after recently losing its default position on the Firefox browser to Yahoo.

Apple also dropped Google for Microsoft's Bing in 2013 on its virtual assistant Siri.