AI startup Perplexity has submitted an unsolicited $34.5 billion all-cash offer to acquire Google’s Chrome browser.
The bid, confirmed on August 12, comes as U.S. regulators weigh potential remedies following a court ruling that Google holds an illegal monopoly in online search.
Just three years after its founding and with a current valuation estimated between $14 billion and $18 billion, Perplexity has built its reputation on an AI-driven search platform and experimental browser technology.
Its proposal to Google includes:
- Maintain Chrome’s open-source Chromium code base to ensure developer continuity.
- Invest $3 billion over two years to enhance browser performance and features.
- Keep Google as the default search engine, while still allowing users to switch easily.
- Provide long-term support for existing Chrome users worldwide.
The startup’s leadership argues that its nimble, AI-first approach could inject innovation into Chrome while addressing regulatory concerns about competition in the browser and search markets.
Antitrust Context
This bid lands squarely in the middle of one of the most significant antitrust cases in U.S. tech history. Earlier this year, a federal court found that Google unlawfully maintained a monopoly over search and search advertising, partly through its dominance with Chrome.
One potential remedy under discussion is forcing Google to divest its browser business entirely.
The Perplexity offer plays directly into that scenario, presenting itself as a ready-made buyer should regulators push through a Chrome sell-off.
While the number sounds impressive, Wall Street and industry insiders have raised eyebrows for several reasons:
- Valuation gap: Perplexity’s offer is nearly twice its valuation, raising questions about financing.
- Undervaluing Chrome: Some analysts argue Chrome is worth far more than $34.5 billion, given its market share and role in Google’s ad ecosystem.
- Google’s resistance: The tech giant has shown no signs of wanting to sell Chrome voluntarily. Any forced sale would involve years of legal appeals.
Market Impact
Chrome holds the largest share of the global web browser market and is a key part of Google’s advertising and search business. Selling it would be a major change to the internet’s competitive landscape.
Earlier in 2025, Perplexity also made a speculative offer for TikTok’s U.S. business, signaling its interest in high-profile digital platforms.
The timing also ensures Perplexity’s name stays in the headlines during ongoing antitrust debates, potentially drawing more users to its own AI-powered browser, Comet.
