OpenAI is preparing to release a new web browser that could directly compete with Google Chrome, the most widely used browser in the world. Expected to launch within weeks, the browser will feature a built-in chat interface similar to ChatGPT.
Instead of sending users to external websites, it will allow certain tasks and interactions to take place directly inside the browser. This approach signals OpenAI’s broader plan to integrate its AI tools more deeply into users’ everyday lives.
Expansion beyond ChatGPT amid rising competition
The company’s move comes as it looks to expand beyond its flagship chatbot and into core digital tools. OpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman, disrupted the tech industry with the launch of ChatGPT in 2022 but now faces growing competition from firms like Google and Anthropic.
User data could shift the balance in online ads
A browser would give OpenAI a direct pipeline to user data—a key ingredient in Google’s advertising engine. Chrome plays a central role in Alphabet’s ad business, which accounts for nearly three-quarters of the company’s revenue.
The browser collects data that powers highly targeted ads and automatically directs users to Google’s search engine, reinforcing its dominance in the search market.
OpenAI to Launch AI-Powered Web Browser
OpenAI is building its own browser—designed to complete tasks using AI, not just display websites.
The browser is Chromium-based, integrates GPT-style assistants, and includes web access without switching tabs. pic.twitter.com/PcrQRvBlg5
— UPTREND NEWS (@UPTRNDNEWS) July 9, 2025
If a significant number of ChatGPT’s 500 million weekly users adopt the new browser, it could put pressure on Google’s advertising model. Last year, a U.S. judge ruled that Google holds an illegal monopoly in online search. The Department of Justice has since pushed for a breakup of parts of the company’s ad operations.
Built on Chromium and designed for AI integration
OpenAI’s browser is being built using Chromium, the open-source software also used by Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera. The decision allows OpenAI to develop a familiar interface while customizing it to support AI agents that can carry out actions like booking reservations or filling out forms on behalf of the user.
🌐 OpenAI to Launch AI‑Powered Web Browser.
OpenAI is gearing up to release a Chromium‑based browser with native ChatGPT and its “Operator” agent to book, search, and autofill tasks posing a direct challenge to Google Chrome. pic.twitter.com/rjmFB99FVa— Atif Masood Chaudhry (@atif2win) July 11, 2025
Last year, OpenAI hired two former Google executives who helped create Chrome. The hires signaled the company’s serious intent to enter the browser market. In April, an OpenAI executive testified that the company would consider buying Chrome if it were ever forced to be sold due to antitrust enforcement.
Google plans to appeal the monopoly ruling
While Google has not offered Chrome for sale, it plans to appeal the ruling. Meanwhile, OpenAI has chosen to build its browser instead of creating a plug-in for an existing platform. One source said the company wants more control over the user data it collects.
AI browser competition continues to grow
The browser market remains highly competitive. Chrome holds more than two-thirds of the global share, with Apple’s Safari in a distant second at 16%, according to StatCounter.
AI-focused browsers are also gaining ground. Perplexity launched its browser, Comet, this week. Other startups, including Brave and The Browser Company, have released tools that use AI to search and summarize the web.
OpenAI declined to comment. The sources requested anonymity because they are not authorized to speak publicly about the project.
