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Bank of America (BofA) analysts have raised concerns that Apple’s potential investment in OpenAI could complicate its longstanding partnership with Google, particularly regarding the lucrative deal that positions Google as the default search engine on Apple devices. The warning comes amid reports that Apple is exploring a significant stake in OpenAI, the artificial intelligence company behind the popular AI model, ChatGPT.
According to BofA, the potential investment could signal a strategic shift for Apple, positioning it more aggressively in the AI space and potentially leading to a reevaluation of its dependency on Google’s search services. The current agreement, which reportedly brings in billions of dollars annually for Apple, could be jeopardized if the company begins to favor AI-driven search technologies developed in collaboration with OpenAI.
“Apple’s interest in OpenAI suggests a broader ambition to integrate advanced AI capabilities into its ecosystem,” said a BofA analyst. “However, this move could complicate its relationship with Google, especially if Apple begins to leverage OpenAI’s technologies to enhance or replace existing search functionalities.”
The potential conflict lies in the growing competition between AI-driven search engines and traditional search methods. OpenAI’s advancements in natural language processing and AI could enable Apple to develop its own search tools, reducing its reliance on Google. Such a development could prompt Google to renegotiate the terms of its partnership or explore other avenues to maintain its dominance on Apple devices.
Apple’s exploration of AI investments is part of a broader industry trend where tech giants are increasingly focusing on AI to drive innovation. However, this shift could lead to tensions between companies that have traditionally cooperated, particularly in areas where AI could disrupt established business models.