AI-powered search startup Perplexity has made an unsolicited $34.5 billion offer to buy Google’s Chrome web browser, a bold move targeting Google’s dominance in the internet space.
The San Francisco-based company is aiming to position itself ahead of a possible US government order that could force Google to sell Chrome following antitrust proceedings. The proposal was sent to Google’s parent company, Alphabet, on Tuesday.
Perplexity, which has been building itself as an AI-driven alternative to Google Search, says it will fund the purchase with backing from large investment funds, though it has not disclosed their identities.
Google is currently under intense scrutiny from US regulators after a federal judge ruled last year that it has been illegally monopolizing the internet search market. The US government has suggested remedies such as forcing the sale of Chrome and licensing search data to rivals. While Google plans to appeal, it is also exploring softer adjustments to its business practices, which could delay any forced divestment for years.
Industry analysts are skeptical about Perplexity’s offer, with some valuing Chrome closer to $100 billion and questioning whether regulators will mandate a sale. Analysts also warn that separating Chrome from Google’s ecosystem could hurt its quality and user experience.
Perplexity maintains it has both the funds and a strategy in place. Recently valued at $18 billion after a $100 million fundraising round, the company says it would invest $3 billion over two years into Chrome and its open-source Chromium project, retaining much of Chrome’s existing team.
This isn’t Perplexity’s first attempt to preempt a major tech divestment. Earlier this year, it reportedly sought to merge with TikTok’s US operations to prevent a potential ban. The company is also preparing to launch its own browser, Comet, with integrated AI agents capable of performing tasks like online shopping.
Perplexity has pledged not to make hidden changes to Chrome, ensuring stability for users and advertisers. Whether Google accepts the offer—or is compelled by regulators to consider it—remains uncertain.
