Perplexity AI Makes $34.5 Billion Bid to Acquire Google Chrome

Artificial intelligence startup Perplexity AI has made an unsolicited $34.5 billion offer to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, marking one of the most ambitious moves by a young AI company. The bid comes as Google faces mounting regulatory pressure following a major U.S. antitrust ruling.

Bid Overview

Perplexity’s offer nearly doubles its own valuation of $18 billion (as of July 2025), highlighting its rapid growth and strong investor backing. The company claims several investors have pledged support, but financing details remain undisclosed.

Why Chrome Matters

Launched in 2008, Chrome dominates the global browser market with over 60% share, serving as a key pillar of Google’s advertising and data collection ecosystem. Analysts note that Chrome significantly enhances Google’s ad-targeting capabilities.

Regulatory Context

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) won an antitrust case in 2024, ruling Google maintained an illegal monopoly in search. As a remedy, the DOJ suggested divesting Chrome, arguing it gives Google control over a “critical search access point.” Google has strongly opposed the proposal, calling it “radical” and “overbroad.”

Perplexity’s Strategy

Founded as an AI-first search engine, Perplexity focuses on integrating large language models with real-time search. In July 2025, it launched Comet, an AI-powered browser. Acquiring Chrome would give Perplexity instant access to a massive user base, accelerating its mission to redefine browsing with AI.

Industry Impact

If successful, the deal could disrupt the $500+ billion digital advertising market, weakening Google’s integration between Chrome and its ad services. For Perplexity, Chrome offers both a distribution platform and valuable data for refining AI models.

Challenges Ahead

• Financing: Securing $34.5 billion would require significant capital.

• Integration: Chrome’s deep ties to Google’s ecosystem make migration complex.

• Regulation: The deal would face intense scrutiny worldwide, raising competition and privacy concerns.

The Big Picture

Analysts are split on whether Google would ever sell Chrome, given its strategic importance. However, if regulators enforce divestiture, Perplexity’s bid could be the first step toward one of the largest tech acquisitions in history.