This isn’t just a random business idea. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is pushing for some big changes after a judge ruled last year that Google holds a monopoly in online search and related advertising. One of the potential remedies? Forcing Google to sell Chrome—yes, the world’s most-used browser with over 3 billion users. Turley’s comment came as part of his testimony, and it offered a glimpse into the growing crossover between search, browsers, and artificial intelligence.

At Google’s antitrust trial in Washington D.C., an unexpected name popped up in a surprising context—OpenAI. As per a report by Bloomberg, Nick Turley, who heads product at ChatGPT, shared that OpenAI would be interested in buying Google’s Chrome browser if it ever became available for sale.

Why would OpenAI want Chrome?

Turley explained that using Google’s tools could have helped make ChatGPT even more useful. Since Chrome plays such a central role in how people access the internet, owning it could give OpenAI a direct line to billions of users, something that would dramatically expand its reach in the AI space.

However, it must be noted that this all comes as part of the DOJ’s broader case against Google. The government argues that Google has locked up search dominance by striking exclusive deals with companies like Apple and Samsung, making its search the default option on most devices.

According to Turley, it all ties back to one thing: improving ChatGPT. The AI giant currently relies on Bing (Microsoft’s search engine) to provide updated, factual information. However, the AI company had also reached out to Google in hopes of using its search technology, but this was declined.

Judge Amit Mehta ruled in August 2024 that Google had indeed maintained an illegal monopoly. Now, the focus is on how to fix that. One proposed fix? Requiring Google to sell Chrome. Naturally, Google’s not thrilled. They’ve called the DOJ’s proposal “radical” and say it goes far beyond what’s necessary. The company has appealed the ruling.

Where does AI fit in?

The DOJ has also raised concerns about Google’s growing integration of AI into search. If Google continues to dominate both search and AI, it could further entrench its position and leave less room for others, like OpenAI—to compete.

That’s why Turley’s comment matters. It shows that for players in the AI space, browsers and search engines aren’t just side tools—they’re key battlegrounds. Having a browser like Chrome could let OpenAI control not just the AI assistant, but also the environment in which people use it.

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