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OpenAI Eyes Google Chrome in Wake of Antitrust Ruling, Trial Reveals

Google

Business Honor
23 April, 2025

OpenAI exec testifies interest in Chrome as U.S. targets Google’s search monopoly.

OpenAI would consider acquiring Google Chrome if U.S. antitrust regulators compel Google to divest its flagship browser, according to testimony delivered Tuesday in a landmark trial that could reshape the online search and browser markets.

The revelation came from Nick Turley, Head of Product at ChatGPT, during his appearance at the Department of Justice's antitrust trial against Google. The trial centers on claims that Google unlawfully maintained a monopoly over search and search-related advertising. Though Chrome is not officially for sale, Turley's remarks indicate how high the stakes are for the tech industry if the court orders structural remedies.

"We believe having multiple partners, and in particular Google's API, would enable us to provide a better product to users," Turley stated, referencing OpenAI’s earlier attempt to access Google’s search technology to enhance ChatGPT’s accuracy and relevance.

Turley also confirmed that OpenAI had approached Google last July seeking access to its search engine via API, but the request was declined by August. At the time, Google cited concerns about enabling competing technologies. ChatGPT currently relies on Microsoft's Bing for search integration.

As part of the DOJ’s proposed remedies, Google may be required to share search data with competitors or even unwind exclusive default search deals with device manufacturers. Turley noted that such measures would boost ChatGPT’s capability to provide real-time, factual answers—something he says OpenAI is still “years away” from fully mastering using its own systems.

The case has far-reaching implications, not only for search dominance but also for adjacent sectors like browsers and artificial intelligence. Google has stated it plans to appeal any ruling that finds it holds a monopoly, arguing that competition remains strong from rivals like Meta and Microsoft.

With Google Chrome commanding over 60% of global browser market share, a forced sale would mark one of the most significant tech divestitures in recent history—and potentially redefine the power dynamics between tech giants in the AI and search domains.