Trial testimony reveals OpenAI interest in Chrome: reports | news...
OpenAI has shown interest in acquiring the widely used Chrome web browser, in the event that Google is compelled to divest it by a US Judge. The interest was disclosed by OpenAI product manager Nick Turley during testimony at an antitrust trial in Washington, D.C. According to Bloomberg, Turley's testimonial revealed the start-up's aspiration to acquire the world's most favored internet browser.
Antitrust Trial Details
The trial, presided over by Judge Amit Mehta, aims to determine appropriate remedies against Google subsequent to a pivotal ruling last year that the tech giant had unjustly monopolized online search services. US government attorneys advocate for the enforcement of a sale of the Chrome browser, contending that AI advancements could further bolster Google's online search dominance. 
Google, in response, criticized the recommendation as an excessive overreach, suggesting that a forced sale of its Android mobile operating system could also be considered.
Google's Position
Google's President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, criticized the Department of Justice's proposal as overly broad and detrimental to American technological advancement. Walker argued in a blog post, "The DOJ's radical proposition would not only impact Americans negatively but also impede America's global technology leadership."
OpenAI's Perspective
OpenAI's interest in Chrome stems from its vision to incorporate Google's search technology into the ChatGPT artificial intelligence, enhancing the capabilities of the digital assistant. Despite current lack of collaboration, 
OpenAI believes that leveraging Google's API would enhance user experience significantly.
AI Market Share
Google and OpenAI are both intensifying their investments in AI technologies, with Google boasting an estimated market share between 1 and 2 percent, while OpenAI holds approximately 7 percent. Although OpenAI does not have direct access to Google's search engine currently, speculations persist that such integration could vastly benefit both entities. 
Legal Proceedings
The Department of Justice initiated legal proceedings against Google in 2020, culminating in Judge Mehta's ruling against the tech giant in August 2024. Google has since lodged an appeal against the decision.
-With AFP
