OpenAI is nearing the launch of its first AI-powered web browser, directly challenging Google Chrome’s dominance in the global browser market. According to sources familiar with the development, the browser is expected to roll out within the next few weeks, marking a strategic expansion of OpenAI’s ecosystem beyond ChatGPT.
This new browser aims to fundamentally transform how users interact with the web, using artificial intelligence to streamline browsing, automate tasks, and reduce dependence on traditional search engines.
With over 3 billion global users, Google Chrome is a major gateway for online search and digital advertising. Chrome’s ability to collect user data has been pivotal in powering Google’s lucrative ad business, which contributes to roughly 75% of Alphabet’s revenue.
OpenAI’s browser poses a threat to this dominance by shifting user interactions into a chat-first interface, similar to ChatGPT, instead of relying on traditional web navigation. This approach could significantly reduce traffic routed through Google Search, hitting one of Alphabet’s most valuable tools.
By launching its own browser, OpenAI will gain more direct access to first-party user data, a valuable asset in the AI training and digital advertising space. This move gives the company greater control over its data pipeline and breaks its reliance on third-party platforms for user engagement.
According to one source, OpenAI intentionally chose to build a full browser—rather than just a browser extension—to maximize data visibility and customize user experience with AI at its core.
The browser is expected to feature deep integration with OpenAI’s AI products, such as Operator, which can perform tasks on the user’s behalf. These tasks may include booking reservations, filling out online forms, or summarizing web content—streamlining browsing and increasing productivity.
With access to real-time web activity, OpenAI’s browser can evolve into a platform for AI agents that act autonomously, saving time and improving user outcomes across work and personal tasks.
Despite its market leadership, Google Chrome is under increasing scrutiny. The U.S. Department of Justice recently called for its divestiture, claiming that Google’s search and ad monopoly—powered largely through Chrome—violates antitrust laws.
OpenAI’s browser could further pressure Google’s stronghold, especially as regulators explore breaking up dominant platforms. Interestingly, OpenAI executives have even stated they’d be interested in acquiring Chrome if forced divestiture ever became a reality.
OpenAI’s browser is being developed using Chromium, Google’s open-source browser engine that also powers Microsoft Edge, Opera, and others. This ensures compatibility with modern web standards and familiarity for users.
To support this project, OpenAI has recruited former Google Chrome executives, including two vice presidents who were part of Chrome’s founding team. Their expertise suggests that OpenAI is serious about building a full-featured, scalable browser capable of competing at the highest level.
OpenAI isn’t alone in trying to reshape web browsing with AI. Competitors like Brave, The Browser Company, and Perplexity AI have launched or announced their own smart browsers this year. Perplexity, in particular, just introduced Comet, an AI browser that focuses on intelligent search and task execution.
However, OpenAI’s access to 400 million ChatGPT users and its leadership in generative AI could give it a major advantage in driving user adoption and functionality integration.
If even a portion of ChatGPT’s 400 million weekly users begin using OpenAI’s browser, the company could capture significant market share and carve out a foothold in an area long dominated by Google.
Currently, OpenAI has around 3 million paying business users, and integrating AI tools directly into the browser could provide added value that differentiates it from existing solutions.
Conclusion: A New Era in Browsing?
OpenAI’s upcoming browser has the potential to redefine how we use the internet. With AI at its core, native task automation, and deep integration into the OpenAI ecosystem, it presents a bold vision for the future of web navigation. As Chrome’s position comes under pressure from both regulators and rivals, OpenAI’s entry could be a game-changer in the battle for the next-generation browser.