OpenAI Eyes Chrome Acquisition Amid Antitrust Upheaval

A Potential AI-First Future for the World’s Most Popular Browser

In a stunning development at the heart of the ongoing antitrust trial against Google, Nick Turley, Head of Product at OpenAI, revealed that the artificial intelligence powerhouse would be interested in acquiring Google Chrome, should regulators compel Alphabet to divest the browser as a remedy to restore market competition.

Chrome, used by approximately 64% of internet users worldwide (according to Similarweb), stands as the undisputed leader among browsers. Its closest competitor, Apple’s Safari, only commands a 21% share.

The remark was made during Turley's testimony on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), which is pushing for structural remedies following a series of court rulings that have found Google to be illegally monopolistic in both search and digital advertising markets. While Google maintains that Chrome is not for sale, the DOJ trial is actively exploring options to dismantle the company's dominant position in online search.

"We have no partnership with Google today," Turley emphasized, referencing a previous offer from OpenAI to integrate Google Search into ChatGPT, which was reportedly rejected by the tech giant.

AI, Search, and Browser Wars Collide

OpenAI’s interest in Chrome could represent a paradigm shift in how browsers operate, transitioning from traditional search-based experiences to “AI-first” interfaces. With the rise of generative AI, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, the way users interact with the web is rapidly evolving.

Google, however, argues that breaking up its services would "hurt America's consumers, economy, and technological leadership," according to Lee-Anne Mulholland, the company's Head of Regulatory Affairs.

At the same time, OpenAI’s ties to Microsoft, maker of Bing and Edge, further complicate the landscape. Microsoft has long sought to break Google’s stronghold in online search, and its strategic alignment with OpenAI could intensify competition.

The Bigger Picture

This trial, which may run for several more weeks, is not just about Google. Other tech giants like Meta, Amazon, and Apple are closely monitoring proceedings, as each faces mounting scrutiny from U.S. regulators.

Adding to the intrigue, OpenAI is also reportedly exploring the creation of a social media network, potentially rivaling X (formerly Twitter).

More on this development: OpenAI Eyes Social Media: A Bold New Rival to X and Meta