OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT Atlas, an AI-Powered Browser

OpenAI has unveiled its first AI-powered web browser, ChatGPT Atlas. This brings ChatGPT's creator into a market where competitors include Alphabet Inc.

The new browser is designed for personalized web browsing and automated tasks, such as booking flights or editing documents. Its key feature is the "Ask ChatGPT" button on every page. Clicking it opens a sidebar that lets you interact with the content. For example, you can ask the AI ​​to summarize a lengthy movie review.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman called artificial intelligence a "rare, once-in-a-decade opportunity" to reinvent the browser during a presentation.

According to the company, the browser will first be available for macOS, and then for other platforms – Windows, iOS, and Android.

OpenAI is among several companies currently integrating artificial intelligence into browsers. For example, Perplexity AI Inc. recently released the Comet browser, and Opera and The Browser Company are also adding similar features to their products.

When developing the ChatGPT agent functionality in the Atlas browser, special attention was paid to security. Protective mechanisms were implemented to minimize potential risks associated with accessing websites that require authorization and browsing history. The agent is unable to run code in the browser, download files, or install extensions.

The agent's access to other applications on the user's device and the file system is blocked. When accessing sensitive resources, such as financial institution websites, the agent suspends actions until the user confirms. To limit access to personal data and reduce risks when interacting with websites, an unauthorized mode is available.

Google's market capitalization fell by almost $100 billion in one day (some sources say $150 billion). The company's shares, meanwhile, fell from $256.61 to $250.48.

However, after the Atlas announcement, Google shares surged, and its market capitalization even increased by $180 billion. Investors noticed that the presentation omitted any mention of search monetization. Many saw potential in Atlas's new features that Google could realize.