Perplexity has offered $34.5 billion to buy Google’s Chrome browser amid U.S. antitrust pressure.
The AI firm says it can expand Chrome without hidden changes, but analysts doubt the bid’s value.
Artificial intelligence-driven search company Perplexity has put forward an unsolicited $34.5 billion proposal to buy Google’s Chrome web browser. The bold move appears to be an attempt to take advantage of growing antitrust pressure on Google in the United States.
The San Francisco-based company confirmed it submitted the proposal to Google’s parent company, Alphabet, on Tuesday, positioning itself ahead of a possible government order that could force Google to divest Chrome.
Google is currently facing intense scrutiny from U.S. regulators after a federal judge ruled last year that it had illegally monopolized the internet search market. Among the remedies under consideration are forcing the sale of Chrome and requiring Google to license search data to rivals. While Google plans to appeal the ruling, it is also exploring less severe concessions, such as modifying default search agreements with partners like Apple, Mozilla, and Android device makers, a process that could take years.
Market analysts remain doubtful about Perplexity’s bid. Colin Sebastian of Robert W. Baird & Co. estimates Chrome’s value to be closer to $100 billion, calling the $34.5 billion offer a “vast undervaluation.” He also warned that separating Chrome from Google’s wider ecosystem could diminish the browser’s quality, reliability, and overall user experience.
Perplexity, which recently reached a valuation of $18 billion after securing $100 million in new funding, maintains that it has the resources and a clear strategy for expansion. The company has vowed to avoid making any hidden or undisclosed changes to Chrome if the acquisition goes through, assuring both users and advertisers of continued stability.
This isn’t the first time Perplexity has made a move in anticipation of a potential tech industry divestment. Earlier this year, the company reportedly explored merging with TikTok’s U.S. operations to prevent a ban on the app.
Perplexity is also gearing up to launch its own browser, Comet, featuring built-in AI agents capable of handling tasks like online shopping. The company has pledged not to make “stealth modifications” to Chrome if it acquires it, promising stability for users and advertisers alike.
Whether Google engages with the offer or is compelled by regulators to sell remains uncertain.
