Why ChatGPT’s New Browser Could Change the Internet Forever

AI Is Eating Search ChatGPT usage for web search has skyrocketed by 212%, while Google’s own search traffic has declined by 5%. Users are increasingly bypassing Google entirely, getting direct answers from AI and clicking straight through to websites. This marks the beginning of an AI-driven model of information retrieval, fundamentally different from traditional search.
Google’s $100 Billion Chrome Dilemma The U.S. Justice Department is pushing for Google to divest Chrome, which they value at $100 billion. Chrome is a massive piece of Google’s search funnel, and losing it would mean losing control over a huge chunk of web traffic. ChatGPT reportedly attempted to buy Chrome but was flatly denied.
The Chromium Hack ChatGPT is now launching its browser using Chromium—the same open-source base that powers Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Brave. This means it can build a full-featured browser with AI deeply integrated, capable of live browsing, summarization, and direct content navigation.
From Google Funnels to AI Gateways Right now, browsers like Chrome and Safari funnel users into their own search engines (Google and Apple, respectively). ChatGPT’s browser shifts that control by making AI the first touchpoint for information. Instead of Google directing you to results, ChatGPT analyzes your query, pulls real-time info, and links directly to relevant pages—cutting Google out of the equation.
Why This Matters for Creators and Marketers This change could redefine SEO and digital traffic. If AI is the gateway, then optimizing for AI summaries and responses might matter more than traditional keyword rankings. Tools and strategies built around Google will need to adapt fast.
Google Fights Back with Gemini and AI Mode In response, Google is rolling out its own AI search mode (Gemini), trying to maintain relevance. But if users shift habits toward AI-first tools like ChatGPT, Google’s dominance could seriously erode.
What’s Next? The ChatGPT browser release seems imminent. Expect it to be buggy at launch, but the potential is enormous. As AI becomes the default layer between users and the web, we’re entering a new era of digital interaction.