OpenAI Eyes Chrome Acquisition Amid Antitrust Proceedings

During the remedies phase of the U.S. Department of Justice's antitrust trial against Google, OpenAI's Head of Product, Nick Turley, testified that the company would be interested in purchasing Google's Chrome browser if it were made available for sale. Turley emphasized that acquiring Chrome would enable OpenAI to offer an "AI-first" browsing experience, enhancing user interaction with ChatGPT.​The Economic Times+4The Verge+4TechCrunch+4Entrepreneur+1TechCrunch+1

This revelation comes after Google's refusal to partner with OpenAI to integrate its search technology into ChatGPT, citing concerns over involving too many competitors. Currently, ChatGPT relies on Microsoft's Bing for search data, though Turley noted significant quality issues with that provider. OpenAI is also developing its own search index, aiming to handle a substantial portion of queries internally in the future.​The Economic Times+2The Verge+2The Economic Times+2

The DOJ's proposal to have Google divest Chrome is part of broader efforts to address the company's monopolistic practices in online search and advertising. A decision on the matter is expected by August.