In a move that has stunned Silicon Valley, Perplexity AI—a rising startup valued at $18 billion—has made a surprise $34.5 billion bid to acquire Google Chrome, the world’s most widely used web browser. The offer, which comes amid mounting antitrust pressure on Google, has raised eyebrows across the tech industry.
Backed by heavyweights like Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and chip giant Nvidia, Perplexity is led by Aravind Srinivas, a former Google and OpenAI engineer. The company claims its bid reflects a commitment to “user choice, open access, and continuity” for Chrome’s estimated three billion users.
But not everyone is convinced. Tech investor Heath Ahrens dismissed the offer as a “stunt,” arguing that Chrome’s true value far exceeds the bid, given its vast user base and data reach. He added that unless someone like Elon Musk or Sam Altman made a significantly higher offer, the move wouldn’t be taken seriously.
The timing of Perplexity’s bid is particularly notable. Google is currently facing two major antitrust lawsuits in the United States, with a federal judge expected to rule soon on whether the company must break up its search business. If ordered to divest Chrome, Google has vowed to appeal, calling the idea “unprecedented” and harmful to both consumers and cybersecurity.
In a letter to Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, Perplexity argued that transferring Chrome to an independent operator would serve the public interest and enhance online safety. However, critics question whether Chrome is even up for sale, and whether Perplexity’s motives are more strategic than sincere.
The startup recently launched its own AI-powered browser, Comet, which has already faced legal scrutiny. In June, the BBC accused Perplexity of reproducing its content without permission. Perplexity fired back, claiming the BBC’s actions were part of a broader effort to protect Google’s “illegal monopoly.”
The tone of Perplexity’s response—defiant, combative, and politically charged—has drawn comparisons to other tech disruptors. Whether this bid is a genuine play or a calculated PR move, it’s clear Perplexity is aiming to shake up the status quo.
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