OpenAI Considers Chrome Acquisition Amid Bidding War and Antitrust Uncertainty

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has indicated a potential interest in acquiring Google Chrome, should antitrust proceedings lead to a mandated separation of the browser from Alphabet Inc. While no official bid has been submitted or confirmed, Altman confirmed during an interview that OpenAI is considering the move, aligning with similar interest expressed by rival AI firm Perplexity AI [4]. This development has sparked speculation about how the landscape of internet infrastructure might shift in the coming years.

Perplexity AI has already floated a $34.5 billion offer for Chrome, which CEO Aravind Srinivas has framed as a commitment to open internet values [6]. In response, Search.com, backed by JPMorgan Chase, reportedly made a $35 billion counteroffer, further escalating the competition for control of one of the world’s most widely used browsers [3]. The figures highlight the perceived value of Chrome’s infrastructure, though they remain speculative until formal bids are submitted and regulatory decisions are finalized.

Altman’s interest in Chrome reflects a broader strategic shift among AI and tech companies seeking to influence the future of digital tools. With ChatGPT’s rapid adoption and the increasing integration of AI into everyday web use, OpenAI’s potential move into browser technology could signal a broader ambition to control key user touchpoints. “Acquiring Chrome would be a strategic move if it aligns with our mission and long-term goals,” Altman stated, though he has not outlined specific plans for funding or integration [4].

Industry analysts remain cautious. While the market has not yet reacted to the acquisition speculation, regulatory outcomes will likely dictate the feasibility of such a move. Past antitrust cases, such as Microsoft’s with Internet Explorer, resulted in structural changes rather than full divestitures, suggesting that any transition would be shaped by complex legal and competitive dynamics [3]. For now, the broader tech and crypto markets remain unaffected, with no significant shifts in browser-related assets or major cryptocurrencies reported [1].

As the situation unfolds, the outcome of potential regulatory action will be crucial. If forced to divest, Alphabet may face a reorganization of its core web offerings, with OpenAI, Perplexity AI, and others positioned to step in. However, with no formal bids yet submitted and no clear timeline established, the future of Google Chrome remains uncertain [5].

Source:

[1] https://sherwood.news/tech/openai-wants-to-buy-googles-chrome-too/

[2] https://www.techinasia.com/news/altman-openai-trillions-ai-spend-ipo-hint

[3] https://www.mitrade.com/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1044344-20250816

[4] https://sherwood.news/tech/big-tech-is-turning-into-big-energy/

[5] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/who-is-aravind-srinivas-the-perplexity-ai-ceo-who-offered-34-5-billion-to-sundar-pichai-to-buy-google-chrome/articleshow/123305138.cms

[6] https://decrypt.co/335357/google-gets-35-billion-offer-chrome-ai-browser-escalates/