OpenAI is set to launch its own internet browser, powered by artificial intelligence, in the coming weeks, in the hopes that it will pose a real threat to market leader Google Chrome. The idea is to reduce the need for users to visit third-party sites or apps, whether to access information or a competitor AI chatbot, as ChatGPT will be integrated into the software.
While OpenAI ignited the fuse of the AI boom with the release of ChatGPT, it is now facing competition from rival chatbots based on comparable or more powerful large language models. As a result, it is looking to diversify into other areas, and the browser is part of that plan, anonymous sources told Reuters.
OpenAI plans to integrate its AI agent products, such as Operator, directly into its browser, allowing it to perform multi-step tasks on the user’s behalf, according to the sources. Having access to their web activity, typically collected and stored by browsers, will significantly enhance the usefulness and intuitiveness of agent-driven interactions on websites, such as autofilling forms or booking reservations.
The ability to access user data is a key reason OpenAI chose to develop its own browser instead of building a plug-in for Chrome or other existing browsers, according to the sources. After all, it is what has allowed Chrome to dominate for so long.
User data is integral to building a successful browser, as Google knows
User data has enabled Google to deliver highly targeted, highly profitable ads, which become even more targeted and profitable as Chrome’s user base grows. Better ads attract more users, which in turn generates more data, creating a virtuous cycle. In addition, owning its own browser has allowed Google to set itself as the default search engine for its millions of users, reinforcing its dominance in the search market.
Google’s deep-rooted position in the browser ecosystem has meant that OpenAI can’t even separate itself entirely. Its browser will be based on Chromium, an open-source web browser project developed by Google that serves as the foundation for the likes of Chrome and Edge, the sources told Reuters.
Nevertheless, such dominance has landed Google in legal trouble. In August 2024, a US district judge ruled that Google held an illegal monopoly in the online search market after investing billions to make its site the default web browser and smartphone search engine. Among the remedies the Department of Justice has suggested to de-monopolise Google is for the company to sell off Chrome or license its data to others, a proposal CEO Sundar Pichai strongly objected to.
Google has separately been found guilty of maintaining an illegal monopoly in the online advertising market, and could be forced to sell its Ad Manager platform.
More must-read AI coverage
- SS&C Intralinks DealCentre AI vs. Datasite: Which platform is built for the future of dealmaking?
- SS&C Intralinks FundCentre AI vs. Juniper Square: Which platform better supports modern private markets fund managers?
- Why Data, Not Models, Determines AI Success
- The Rise of the AI-Native Factory: How Physical AI Is Transforming Manufacturing
Evidence of OpenAI’s interest in the AI browser market has been emerging for some time
OpenAI hired two former Google vice presidents who helped develop Google Chrome to assist in creating its own browser, The Information reported in November. Plus, during the April remedies trial to dismantle Google’s search monopoly, an OpenAI executive revealed that the company would be interested in buying Chrome if regulators force its sale.
The following month, OpenAI acquired io, the AI hardware startup led by legendary Apple designer Jony Ive, for $6.5 billion. According to tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, they are building a device that will feature “no display functionality” and can be worn around the neck, similar to the now-discontinued Humane AI pin. That is, if they can escape the trademark battle with another AI company called iyO.
Perplexity and others are also building AI browsers
Just this week, Perplexity launched its AI-powered web browser, Comet, which features an integrated AI assistant that can perform tasks for the user. Dia, from The Browser Company, was released in beta last month, featuring a URL bar that acts as the input field of a chatbot that draws on a user’s internet history to tailor its responses. Other AI-focused browsers include Opera’s Neon and Norton’s Neo.
Want to see how Firefox is approaching the AI browser boom? In a TechRepublic exclusive, Mozilla’s VP of Product reveals the company’s plans.