OpenAI Plans to Acquire Chrome if Forced Sale Occurs

During the ongoing US antitrust trial against Google, OpenAI's head of product for ChatGPT, Nick Turley, testified that the company would be interested in acquiring Google's Chrome browser if regulators force its sale. Turley explained that owning Chrome would allow OpenAI to create an 'AI-first' browsing experience and expand ChatGPT's distribution, which has been hindered by Google's preferential treatment of its own AI products and exclusive deals with phone manufacturers. The Department of Justice argues that Google's control over Chrome and its exclusive agreements reinforce its search monopoly and provide it with an unfair advantage in the AI sector. Turley also revealed that OpenAI previously sought access to Google's search technology for ChatGPT but was denied, highlighting the competitive tensions between the two companies. While Google disputes the monopoly findings and plans to appeal, the court's final decision on remedies, including a possible divestiture of Chrome, is pending. Multiple parties, not just OpenAI, have expressed interest in acquiring Chrome if it is spun off.