OpenAI Is Building a Chromium-Based Browser to Take On Google Chrome

In a bold new move, OpenAI is working on launching its own web browser, setting the stage for a head-on challenge with Google Chrome. The new browser is built on Chromium, the open-source framework behind Chrome and many other popular browsers. According to a report by Reuters, this approach gives OpenAI more control over how the browser functions—and more importantly, direct access to user data, which is critical for training and improving its AI models.

AI That Doesn't Just Talk—It Acts

What sets OpenAI’s browser apart is how deeply it will be integrated with ChatGPT and in-browser AI agents like Operator. These agents won’t just answer questions—they’ll actually perform tasks. Think about making reservations, filling out forms, finding the best deals, or sending messages to customers—all without leaving the browser. Instead of jumping between websites, users can complete actions directly through a chat-like interface. Essentially, the browser becomes a full-blown digital assistant that both thinks and acts on your behalf.

Why This Could Hurt Google

The timing is interesting. Alphabet, Google’s parent company, depends heavily on Google Chrome—which has around 3.45 billion monthly users—to collect browsing data that feeds into its massive advertising ecosystem. If just a portion of the 400 million weekly ChatGPT users were to switch over to OpenAI’s browser, it could lead to a major loss in both market presence and ad revenue for Google.

But it’s not just about grabbing market share. It’s about securing access to real-time data. For companies building cutting-edge AI systems, having constant access to user behavior is essential. And that’s one reason OpenAI chose to create a full browser, not just a plug-in—to ensure an uninterrupted stream of valuable data access.

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Part of a Bigger Vision

This browser isn’t an isolated project—it fits into a larger game plan. In May, OpenAI acquired an AI hardware company called io for a whopping $6.5 billion. The company has also been expanding its talent pool, hiring former Google executives who previously worked on Chrome. All signs point to OpenAI gearing up to compete not just in AI software, but across the whole stack—from hardware to browsing tools.

Although Google has no public plans to sell Chrome, the tech giant is currently under scrutiny. The US government has accused Alphabet of running an illegal monopoly in the search and advertising sectors. OpenAI has reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Chrome if legal pressure ever forces Google’s hand.