Perplexity AI Offers $34.5B for Chrome Amid Google Antitrust Case

Perplexity AI, an artificial intelligence search platform, has made a surprise $34.5 billion all-cash offer to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, aiming to challenge Google’s dominance in the search market [1]. The bid significantly exceeds Perplexity’s current valuation of approximately $14–$18 billion and reflects the company’s aggressive strategy to expand its AI-driven search capabilities [1]. The proposal has received support from major venture capital firms and investors, including SoftBank and Nvidia, indicating confidence in the potential of the transaction [1].

Founded three years ago and led by CEO Aravind Srinivas, Perplexity has already made waves with previous high-profile acquisition proposals, including a previously rumored merger with TikTok’s U.S. operations [1]. This pattern of bold moves positions the startup as a disruptor in the tech industry, willing to challenge long-standing players and regulatory norms.

The timing of the offer aligns with ongoing antitrust litigation against Google. The U.S. Department of Justice has ruled that Google has maintained an illegal monopoly in the search market, and the court has left open the possibility of remedies such as the forced sale of Chrome [1]. Perplexity’s proposal could gain relevance if regulators ultimately decide to break up part of Google’s digital empire. However, Google has not indicated any interest in a voluntary sale and is currently appealing the court’s decision [1].

Perplexity’s offer includes key commitments aimed at addressing regulatory concerns. It plans to maintain Chrome’s open-source Chromium code, invest $3 billion in the browser over the next two years, and retain Google Search as the default engine [1]. These concessions suggest an effort to align with potential regulatory requirements and avoid accusations of anti-competitive behavior.

Industry analysts remain skeptical about the likelihood of the deal going through on Google’s terms. Some note that Chrome’s potential market value could exceed $50 billion, suggesting that Perplexity’s offer may fall short of what a willing seller might expect [1]. Nevertheless, Perplexity’s bid adds to growing interest in Chrome’s future, with reports indicating that other potential buyers, including OpenAI, Yahoo, and Apollo Global Management, are also under consideration [1].

A decision on potential remedies in the Google antitrust case is expected later this month, which could determine the path forward for Chrome’s ownership. Until then, Perplexity’s ambitious proposal remains a bold attempt to reshape the AI search landscape [1].

Source: [1] Perplexity AI Makes Bold $34.5B Play for Google’s Chrome Browser (https://coindoo.com/perplexity-ai-makes-bold-34-5b-play-for-googles-chrome-browser/)