OpenAI, the company behind the popular ChatGPT platform, is reportedly exploring the development of a new web browser that could integrate with its chatbot, according to sources cited by The Information. This potential move comes after the release of SearchGPT, a feature that adds real-time search capabilities to ChatGPT.
Collaborations and Discussions with Developers
According to the report, OpenAI has been in discussions with various app and website developers, including:
- Condé Nast: A global media and publishing company.
- Redfin: A real estate services platform.
- Eventbrite: A platform for organizing events.
- Priceline: A travel and hotel booking website.
The company aims to develop innovative search features that enhance user experience. This effort could position OpenAI as a strong competitor to Google, which dominates the search and browser markets with products like Google Chrome and Google Search.
Competing with Google
OpenAI’s potential entry into the browser market could challenge Google, especially as the tech giant faces increasing legal pressures in the United States. The U.S. Department of Justice has suggested that Google may need to divest its Chrome browser to curb its monopoly on online search.
Meanwhile, Google is working to maintain its dominance by enhancing its AI capabilities. It recently launched Gemini, a chatbot leveraging generative AI, to stay competitive in this rapidly evolving space.
ChatGPT's Success and SearchGPT Expansion
Since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, the platform has seen phenomenal growth. Data from Similarweb shows that ChatGPT attracts 3.7 billion monthly visits, surpassing Google Chrome, which has approximately 3.45 billion monthly users.
This success is partly attributed to the introduction of SearchGPT, which allows users to search for real-time information, including:
- Sports scores.
- Breaking news.
- Stock prices.
This feature makes ChatGPT resemble traditional search engines like Google Search, but it still relies on existing web browsers to reach users.
Market Share and Competition
According to Statscounter, Google Chrome holds a significant market share, with 35.4 billion users in 2024, and has experienced annual growth of 45.35% over the past five years.
In response, OpenAI continues to expand its offerings and recently acquired the domain Chat.com, though it has yet to reveal how it plans to utilize it.
The Future of OpenAI in the Browser Market
If OpenAI proceeds with the development of its own browser, it could mark a strategic step towards greater independence from existing browsers. This would enable OpenAI to provide an integrated experience combining advanced search functionality with generative AI.
