2 hours ago
1
OpenAI hires Chrome veteran Darin Fisher, signaling plans to develop web browser challenging Google's market dominance.
- Darin Fisher, a former Chrome engineer, has joined OpenAI.
- OpenAI is reportedly working on a browser to take on Google Chrome.
- The timing is significant as Google faces pressure from the DOJ to sell Chrome.
In what appears to be a development in OpenAI’s expansion, former Chrome engineering veteran Darin Fisher has joined the AI company.
This move adds fuel to earlier reports about OpenAI’s plans to develop a web browser to compete with Google Chrome.
Background & Context
Earlier reports from The Information indicated that OpenAI has been quietly assembling a team of former Google developers to work on a new browser project.
The company has reportedly been in discussions with various partners, including Conde Nast, Eventbrite, Redfin, and Priceline, about implementing specialized search features for travel, food, real estate, and retail websites.
Latest Development
According to an update to his LinkedIn profile, Fisher has recently joined OpenAI.
Screenshot from LinkedIn, November 2024.
His arrival is noteworthy, given Fisher’s background in browser development.
His professional history includes contributions to Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Neeva, making him an asset for OpenAI’s browser ambitions.
You can learn more about Fisher and what he brought to the Chrome team in the video below:
Potential Impact
This development comes at a critical time in the browser market.
Google Chrome dominates with approximately 65% of desktop and 68% of mobile users.
However, the market could shift following recent U.S. Department of Justice proposals suggesting Google should divest its Chrome browser business due to monopoly concerns.
Looking Ahead
While OpenAI’s browser project is reportedly in the early stages, the addition of experienced browser developers like Fisher suggests the company is serious about entering this space.
The potential browser is expected to feature deep integration with ChatGPT and AI-powered search capabilities, though a launch timeline remains unclear.
This move represents another step in OpenAI’s apparent strategy to expand beyond pure AI development into consumer-facing products.
Featured Image: JarTee/Shutterstock
SEJ STAFF Matt G. Southern Senior News Writer at Search Engine Journal
Matt G. Southern, Senior News Writer, has been with Search Engine Journal since 2013. With a bachelor’s degree in communications, ...
English (US) ·