Is Google’s Reign Ending? 72% of ChatGPT Users Now Set It as Homepage

Is Google's search crown finally slipping? A new survey suggests that ChatGPT is no longer just a chatbot—it's becoming the new front door to the internet. According to a report by subscription platform Bango, a staggering 72% of ChatGPT subscribers have set the AI as their default browser homepage on both desktop and mobile devices.

ChatGPT Google Search Dominance: A New Homepage Era

This shift represents a massive threat to Google’s long-standing monopoly. For decades, the tech giant hasn't faced a serious rival in the search space. In 2024, a U.S. federal judge even ruled that Google illegally maintained its dominance. Historically, Google paid Apple roughly $20 billion per year just to remain the default search engine on iPhones—a practice now under intense legal scrutiny.

However, OpenAI seems to be achieving what billions of dollars couldn't: organic user habit change. By polling 1,400 U.S. subscribers, Bango found that power users are bypassing traditional search engines entirely to start their online journey within the chat interface.

The Rise of the AI Super App

The survey highlights a growing trend where users want to consolidate all digital tasks within one platform. The data shows high demand for an integrated AI ecosystem:

• 78% of subscribers added the ChatGPT widget to their home screen for instant access.
• 74% want to shop for products directly through the chatbot.
• 72% are willing to use third-party apps like Spotify or Maps less if they can access them via ChatGPT.

While Google recently gained ground with its Gemini 3 model—reportedly causing ChatGPT to lose 6% of its user base last month—these survey results suggest OpenAI’s core audience is becoming more entrenched. CEO Sam Altman's reported "code red" reflects the fierce competition, but the battle for the browser homepage is one OpenAI might be winning.