AI-driven search startup Perplexity has made headlines by offering $34.5 billion to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, a bold move challenging Google’s stronghold in the web market.
The San Francisco-based company is positioning itself ahead of a potential government order that might force Google to sell Chrome as part of ongoing antitrust investigations. The proposal was sent to Alphabet, Google’s parent company, on Tuesday.
Perplexity, which markets itself as an AI-powered alternative to Google Search, says it has financial backing from major investment funds, though it hasn’t revealed who these investors are.
Google is under scrutiny from U.S. regulators after a federal judge ruled last year that it has been illegally dominating the online search market. Authorities have suggested remedies, including forcing Google to sell Chrome and sharing search data with competitors.
While Google plans to appeal, it is also considering smaller business adjustments that could delay any forced sale for years.
Industry experts are cautious about Perplexity’s bid. Some believe Chrome is worth closer to $100 billion and doubt that regulators will require a sale. Analysts also warn that separating Chrome from Google could harm its performance and user experience.
Perplexity insists it has both the funding and a plan to make the acquisition work. A
fter a recent $100 million funding round, the startup is valued at $18 billion and says it would invest $3 billion over the next two years to improve Chrome and support its open-source Chromium project, keeping most of Chrome’s existing team.
This isn’t Perplexity’s first bold move. Earlier this year, it reportedly tried to merge with TikTok’s U.S. operations to prevent a possible ban. The company is also preparing to launch its own browser called Comet, which will include AI agents for tasks like online shopping.
Perplexity promises not to make hidden changes to Chrome, ensuring stability for users and advertisers. It remains unclear whether Google will accept the offer or if regulators might force the company to consider it.
