OpenAI Eyes Chrome Acquisition Amid Google Antitrust Battle

OpenAI, the company behind the popular AI chatbot ChatGPT, has expressed its willingness to acquire Google's Chrome browser if the tech giant is forced to divest it. This statement comes amid ongoing legal proceedings where google is facing antitrust allegations and potential court-ordered divestments.

Nick Turley, the head of ChatGPT at OpenAI, made the remarks during a court hearing where the U.S. Department of Justice is seeking to compel Google to sell off its Chrome browser. The hearing, which is part of a broader antitrust case, is examining whether Google's practices in the search market are anti-competitive. The court is expected to make a decision by August.

Turley highlighted that integrating ChatGPT with Chrome could provide an "incredible user experience," showcasing what an "AI-first" experience could look like. He also noted that one of the biggest challenges OpenAI faces is distribution, particularly on Android devices. Google has been paying Samsung to pre-install its Gemini AI application, which has hindered OpenAI's efforts to gain traction with Android manufacturers.

Turley expressed concern about being squeezed out of the market by larger competitors who control key distribution channels, such as browsers and app stores. He emphasized the importance of giving users choices to drive competition. OpenAI's ChatGPT, launched in November 2022, has rapidly gained popularity, becoming one of the fastest-growing consumer software products. The company has already exceeded its target for weekly active users for 2024, although specific figures were not disclosed.

The legal battle between Google and the U.S. Department of Justice involves several proposed remedies, including forcing Google to sell Chrome, opening up its search data to competitors, and stopping the practice of paying for exclusive search placements on devices and apps. Google has argued that these measures would harm consumers and undermine the U.S.'s leadership in technology.

If the court ultimately orders Google to divest Chrome, it would mark the first major corporate breakup ordered by a U.S. court since the AT&T divestiture in the 1980s. This potential divestment could significantly reshape the browser market and intensify competition among tech giants.

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