What to know

  • OpenAI told a U.S. judge it would buy Chrome if Google is forced to sell the browser.
  • The statement was made during the remedy phase of Google’s antitrust trial in Washington.
  • OpenAI’s interest comes after Google declined a partnership to integrate search technology into ChatGPT.
  • Google has not offered Chrome for sale and plans to appeal the antitrust ruling.

OpenAI has publicly stated (via Reuters) its willingness to purchase Google’s Chrome browser if a court orders Google’s parent company, Alphabet, to divest the product. This declaration came during testimony by Nick Turley, OpenAI’s head of product for ChatGPT, in the ongoing remedy phase of the Department of Justice’s antitrust trial against Google in Washington.

The antitrust case follows a ruling that Google illegally maintained a monopoly in online search through exclusive agreements, particularly with device manufacturers. As a result, the court is now considering remedies, including the potential forced sale of Chrome, to restore competition in the search market.

Turley explained that OpenAI’s interest in Chrome is driven by the company’s ambition to create a more integrated, AI-first browsing experience. He noted that ChatGPT, OpenAI’s flagship product, could offer users a better experience if it were more deeply integrated with a browser like Chrome.

Turley also mentioned that OpenAI is not alone in its interest; several other companies would also consider acquiring Chrome if it became available.

OpenAI’s testimony also revealed that the company had previously approached Google for a partnership to access its search technology, aiming to improve ChatGPT’s ability to deliver accurate and timely answers.

Google declined this request, citing concerns about competition.

OpenAI currently relies on Microsoft Bing for search data but indicated that it is still years away from developing its own robust search technology.

The Department of Justice is pushing for significant changes to Google’s business practices, including the possible divestiture of Chrome and restrictions on exclusive agreements with device makers.

Google, for its part, has argued that such remedies would harm consumers and has signaled its intention to appeal any breakup order. The outcome of the trial could have far-reaching implications for the technology and AI industries.

Via: TheVerge