Perplexity AI makes $34.5bn bid for Google Chrome
Artificial intelligence startup Perplexity AI has made an unsolicited USD34.5 billion offer to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, in a move that could reshape the internet’s competitive landscape.
The bid, confirmed on Tuesday, comes despite Chrome being one of Google’s most valuable assets and a core gateway to its advertising business.
The figure surpasses Perplexity’s current valuation of USD18 billion, but the company says it has secured commitments from several investors to back the deal.
Google has yet to comment on the proposal. The offer arrives as the search giant faces mounting antitrust pressure following a United States Department of Justice ruling last year that found Google maintained an illegal monopoly in online search.
The DOJ has proposed forcing Google to divest Chrome entirely, arguing it would stop Google’s control of this critical search access point and allow rival search engines a fairer chance at competing.
Launched in 2008, Chrome commands the largest share of the global browser market, providing Google with extensive user data that fuels its targeted advertising business.
Perplexity, known for its AI-powered search engine that provides direct answers alongside source links, recently entered the browser market with its own AI-based product, Comet.
The company has been aggressive in its growth strategy, having earlier explored a potential merger with TikTok and attracting investment interest from major tech firms such as Samsung and Meta.
