• Google is involved in serious antitrust hearings, focusing on its monopoly in online search and advertising.
• The U.S. Department of Justice seeks to force Google to sell its Chrome browser to enhance competition.
• OpenAI's head of product testified that they would be interested in buying Chrome if divestiture occurs.
• Testimony reveals that Google declined a partnership with OpenAI that could have enhanced AI capabilities.
• Experts worry that Google's practices disadvantage smaller competitors and local news outlets.

Google is facing intensive scrutiny in a federal antitrust trial where the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) argues for drastic measures to dismantle its domination in the online search and advertising sectors. Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater stated, "Nothing less than the future of the internet is at stake here," highlighting the importance of preserving competition in tech innovation, especially as it pertains to artificial intelligence (AI) development. The DOJ is particularly focused on mandating the sale of Google's widely used Chrome browser, which they claim is critical to ensuring a fair market for competitors, according to SCMP and NPR.

During the trial, Nick Turley, head of product for OpenAI, revealed the company’s interest in acquiring the Chrome browser should it be divested from Google. Turley noted, “Yes, we would, as would many other parties,” emphasizing that such a move could enable better integration of AI capabilities, according to India Times and BBC.

In related testimonies, Turley explained that OpenAI had attempted to forge a partnership with Google for integrating its search technology into ChatGPT, which was declined due to competitive considerations. He stated, "We have no partnership with Google today," indicating a desire for broader collaboration, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

The trial's focus also includes how Google's exclusive agreements with manufacturers impacted competition in mobile search and AI services. The DOJ argues that Google has leveraged its search engine dominance to reinforce its position in emerging tech domains, leaving smaller competitors at a significant disadvantage. Former FTC Commissioner Rohit Chopra emphasized the need for a free and fair internet that encourages new entrants into the market, stating, “Google engaged in a scheme to choke off competition when it comes to online ads,” according to NPR and Channel News Asia.