The landscape of web browsing may be on the verge of a major shift with the upcoming launch of a new browser developed by OpenAI and powered by artificial intelligence. According to sources cited by Reuters, this innovative tool is expected to debut in the coming weeks, signaling the beginning of a direct rivalry with Google Chrome, the undisputed market leader.
With this bold move, OpenAI aims not only to change how users navigate the Internet but also to establish a more direct channel for accessing user data—mirroring, to some extent, the data collection model that has helped Google maintain its dominance.
The news comes a year after OpenAI introduced SearchGPT, its AI-driven search engine designed to deliver accurate, real-time answers by pulling information directly from the web. That launch marked the company’s first step in challenging traditional search engines and redefining how people interact with information online.
But the upcoming browser goes beyond basic functionality. It will integrate advanced AI features directly into the user experience. One such feature, Operator, will be capable of performing tasks on behalf of users—such as filling out forms or making reservations—without requiring manual input.
Built on Chromium—the same open-source project by Google that powers browsers like Edge and Opera—the new browser will also feature a native chat interface similar to ChatGPT. This will allow users to interact with the system directly within the browser, without having to open external pages.
This innovation is part of a broader strategy by OpenAI to embed its AI tools into users’ personal and professional routines, simplifying everyday tasks and enhancing digital productivity.
Still, the challenge is enormous. Google Chrome currently commands more than 3 billion users, holding over two-thirds of the global market share. Apple’s Safari ranks a distant second with 16%. By comparison, OpenAI recently reported that ChatGPT reached 3 million paid business subscribers last month.
In parallel with the new browser, OpenAI has rolled out significant upgrades to ChatGPT Search, its AI-powered search tool. These updates include more detailed and timely responses, improved natural language comprehension, and enhanced performance in long, multi-turn conversations.
Since web browsing was added to ChatGPT in November 2024, the system has been able to combine its AI models with real-time online data, delivering fast answers along with direct links to the sources used.
In its latest release notes, OpenAI emphasized improvements in how ChatGPT Search interprets complex queries, automatically runs multiple searches when needed, and reduces redundant responses. These refinements reflect user feedback, although the company cautions that occasional errors may still occur and recommends verifying responses.
With the debut of its new browser and ongoing enhancements to its search capabilities, OpenAI is positioning itself as a serious contender in the digital ecosystem—ready to challenge Google’s grip on the future of the web.
