OpenAI is preparing to unveil its very own web browser — an AI-powered platform poised to compete directly with Google Chrome, according to multiple sources familiar with the development. The release is expected within the next few weeks and could disrupt the current browser market in significant ways.
The upcoming browser will harness artificial intelligence to reshape the way users interact with the web. Unlike traditional browsers, this one will integrate features similar to ChatGPT’s conversational interface, allowing users to perform tasks and gather information without needing to navigate away to other websites. In essence, it may turn browsing into more of a dialogue than a click-through experience.
Photo : ChatGPT
If even a portion of ChatGPT’s 500 million weekly users adopt OpenAI’s browser, it could threaten one of Google’s most valuable assets — the user data pipeline provided by Chrome. Currently, Chrome serves as a major funnel for ad-targeting information, helping Google maintain its dominant position in the online advertising industry. Losing even a slice of that could have big consequences for Alphabet, Google’s parent company, which earns roughly three-quarters of its revenue through ads.
According to two insiders, OpenAI’s new browser is being built on Chromium, the same open-source framework that powers Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera. This means it will likely feel familiar to users, while offering deeper AI integration. OpenAI reportedly chose to create its own full browser — rather than just a plug-in — to gain greater control over data and user experience.
A central part of OpenAI’s strategy is integrating its AI agents, such as the upcoming “Operator,” directly into the browser. These agents could carry out tasks like booking appointments, filling out forms, or summarizing web pages on behalf of users — marking a major evolution in how browsing could work.
OpenAI’s move comes as competition in the AI browser space heats up. Just this week, Perplexity launched its own browser, Comet, which also uses AI to interact with websites for users. Meanwhile, Brave and The Browser Company have released similar tools aimed at AI-enhanced browsing.
However, Google Chrome still holds a dominant position, used by more than 3 billion people globally, accounting for over two-thirds of the market share, according to StatCounter. Apple's Safari follows distantly with just 16%. That means OpenAI faces an uphill battle to break into the market — but not an impossible one.
Interestingly, OpenAI has previously hired two former Google vice presidents who were part of Chrome’s original development team, a move seen as a clear signal of its browser ambitions. Reports also indicate that OpenAI once considered acquiring Chrome if forced to be divested due to antitrust rulings, though Google has denied any plans to sell the product and has pledged to appeal the court’s monopoly ruling.
While OpenAI has not officially commented on the upcoming browser, its entry into the space aligns with its broader mission: to embed its AI into both the personal and professional lives of users worldwide.
If successful, this new browser could mark a turning point — not just for how we browse, but for who controls the future of the web.