OpenAI’s Head of Product for ChatGPT, Nick Turley, has expressed interest in acquiring Google Chrome, should the Department of Justice (DOJ) force Google to divest its popular web browser. Turley’s comments, made during Google’s ongoing antitrust trial, highlight OpenAI’s ambition to expand its influence beyond AI-powered chatbots and into the broader internet ecosystem.
Google Chrome currently dominates the browser market, holding over 66% of global market share. If the DOJ’s proposed remedies to curb Google’s alleged anticompetitive behavior include selling Chrome, OpenAI sees an opportunity to reshape the browsing experience with AI-first technology.
Turley stated that owning Chrome would allow OpenAI to introduce users to an AI-first experience, potentially integrating ChatGPT-powered search and autonomous browsing capabilities. This move could position OpenAI as a direct competitor to Google Search, which has long been the default search engine within Chrome.
The DOJ has been investigating Google’s dominance in online search and advertising, arguing that the company has engaged in monopolistic practices. As part of its proposed remedies, the DOJ has suggested that Google divest Chrome or share its search data with competitors to level the playing field.
Turley revealed that OpenAI previously attempted to strike a licensing deal with Google to access its search data for ChatGPT’s real-time search capabilities, but Google declined the offer. This rejection has fueled OpenAI’s interest in acquiring Chrome, as it would provide direct access to billions of users and allow OpenAI to compete more aggressively in the search market.
If OpenAI were to acquire Chrome, it could fundamentally change how users interact with the web. Instead of traditional search queries, users might rely on AI-driven recommendations, conversational search, and autonomous browsing powered by ChatGPT.
However, the prospect of OpenAI owning Chrome raises concerns about competition and data privacy. While Google has been criticized for monopolistic behavior, OpenAI’s rapid expansion into multiple tech sectors could spark new regulatory scrutiny.
At this stage, it remains uncertain whether Google will be required to divest Chrome. The DOJ’s case is still in its remedy phase, where the court will determine the appropriate measures to address Google’s alleged monopoly.
If Chrome does go up for sale, OpenAI won’t be the only interested party. Other tech giants, including Microsoft and Apple, could also make bids, leading to a competitive battle for control over one of the world’s most widely used browsers.
OpenAI’s interest in acquiring Chrome signals a major shift in the AI and search landscape. If successful, this move could redefine how users browse the internet, making AI-driven experiences the new standard. It could also pose an ominous future for the internet, where the most basic interactions are now stuffed full of arbitrary AI elements.
Would you welcome an AI-first browsing experience, or do you think Chrome should remain independent? Let me know your thoughts!
