As the remedy phase of Google’s search monopoly antitrust trial unfolds, AI giant OpenAI has emerged as a potential buyer for Google’s Chrome browser, with plans to transform it into an AI-centric experience.
Ars Technica reports that the ongoing search antitrust trial against Google’s remedy phase has reached a critical juncture, with the DOJ seeking various penalties to realign the company’s business practices after it was ruled a monopoly. Among the most severe proposed remedies is the potential forced sale of Google’s Chrome browser. As discussions surrounding potential buyers ensue, OpenAI has expressed a keen interest in acquiring the browser.
Nick Turley, head of product for ChatGPT at OpenAI, testified on the second day of the trial, addressing not only the potential sale of Chrome but also the DOJ’s proposal to compel Google to share its search index with competitors. Turley revealed that OpenAI had previously approached Google to establish a partnership, hoping to access the company’s search API to enhance ChatGPT’s capabilities. However, Google declined the offer, believing it would jeopardize its dominance in the search market.