Jakarta,INTI – Google Chrome has become a target for several major tech companies, including OpenAI and Yahoo, amid the ongoing antitrust trial. This interest arises from the possibility that Google may be required to sell its browser business unit.
Google’s Antitrust Trial
The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) has accused Google of monopolistic practices in the online search business. During the trial, presided over by Judge Amit Mehta, one of the options discussed is to compel Google to sell Chrome in order to reduce its dominance in the market.
Google’s Plans and Response to Allegations
Google has no plans to sell Chrome and intends to appeal the court's ruling. Previously, Google had considered exclusive agreements with partners regarding search applications, artificial intelligence (AI), and Chrome, but later eased those provisions.
Efforts to Develop an In-House Browser
Yahoo’s General Manager of Search, Brian Provost, revealed that Yahoo has been developing an internal web browser prototype since the summer of 2024. However, the process is expected to take six to nine months before the browser is ready for launch.
Acquiring Chrome, A Quick Path for Yahoo
Provost believes that acquiring Chrome could be a fast track for Yahoo to expand its market share in the online search sector. If Yahoo succeeds in purchasing Chrome, its market share could jump from 3% to over 10%. He estimates that the acquisition cost of Chrome could reach billions of dollars, but is confident that funding could be secured from Yahoo's parent company, Apollo Global Management.
OpenAI’s Need for a Search Engine
Nick Turley, Head of Product at OpenAI, also expressed interest in acquiring Chrome. OpenAI requires a powerful search engine to enhance ChatGPT’s ability to answer user questions accurately and in real-time.
Request Denied by Google
OpenAI had previously requested permission to use Chrome's technology to improve ChatGPT, but the request was denied by Google, citing business competition. Currently, OpenAI relies on Microsoft Bing to train ChatGPT.
Other Companies Interested in Chrome
In addition to Yahoo and OpenAI, companies such as Perplexity—an AI-based search engine developer—and DuckDuckGo are also reportedly interested in acquiring Chrome. However, DuckDuckGo has acknowledged that its funds may not be sufficient to acquire a product as large as Chrome.
Conclusion
The Google antitrust trial opens up new opportunities in the tech world, with Google Chrome becoming a hot asset being contested. Both Yahoo and OpenAI see significant strategic opportunities in this acquisition, although the path to a deal remains long and dependent on the court’s decision. If realized, new ownership of Chrome could drastically alter the competitive landscape of the online search industry.
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