OpenAI Would Like to Acquire Google Chrome if a Federal Court Decides the Company Must Divest
If Google is ordered by court to sell its Chrome browser, OpenAI is interested in an acquisition. This was stated by Nick Turley, head of ChatGPT at OpenAI. He was called as a witness in an investigation into what measures should be taken following the decision that Google monopolizes the search market. One of the drastic proposals is the forced sale of Chrome. Turley confirmed that OpenAI, “like many others,” would be interested in such an acquisition.
Combination of ChatGPT and Google Chrome
ChatGPT is currently available as an extension in Google Chrome, but according to Turley, a deeper integration would create a much better AI experience. “We could show users what an AI-first experience looks like,” he said. He emphasized that distribution is currently one of the biggest challenges for OpenAI. Despite the difficult distribution, ChatGPT continues to grow tremendously. In February, the AI tool had more than 400 million weekly active users. According to Turley, the weekly active user goals for 2024 have been exceeded, but he did not provide exact figures.
It’s not that distribution is completely stalled. Recently, OpenAI reached an agreement with Apple to integrate ChatGPT into the iPhone, but meanwhile, Android smartphone manufacturers remain out of reach. Turley said attempts to collaborate with Samsung failed because Google had more power to invest.
Historic Decision Upcoming?
The verdict is expected in August, writes Bloomberg. The Department of Justice wants Google to sell its Chrome browser, license search data to competitors, and cease paid contracts for exclusive features on apps and devices.
Google opposes the proposals and warns of negative consequences for innovation and the quality of its products. If Chrome actually has to be sold, it would be the largest judicial breakup of an American tech company since the dissolution of telecom giant AT in the 1980s.