Business

Perplexity AI Proposes a Bold $34.5 Billion Bid to Acquire Google Chrome

4 weeks ago
ambuzzway

perplexity-ai-proposes-a-bold-34-5-billion-bid-to-acquire-google-chrome

Perplexity AI Proposes a Bold $34.5 Billion Bid to Acquire Google Chrome

Published On 12 Aug 2025

In a surprising development, Perplexity AI, a burgeoning AI technology firm, has made a staggering $34.5 billion all-cash offer to acquire Google Chrome, the widely used web browser owned by Alphabet Inc. This bold move comes as Perplexity AI’s second major attempt to secure a significant asset in the tech industry this year, following its January bid to purchase the social media platform TikTok.

Understanding the Offer

The proposed acquisition involves a substantial all-cash offer, suggesting that Perplexity AI is prepared to secure substantial financial backing to complete the purchase. The offer is particularly notable given that it exceeds the startup’s current valuation of $18 billion.

Strategic Implications for Perplexity AI

Should the deal proceed, Perplexity AI would gain control over a platform that boasts over three billion users worldwide. This acquisition could significantly enhance the startup’s position in the tech market, especially amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny over Google’s dominance in the industry.

Funding and Financial Backing

Although specific details regarding the funding of the bid were not disclosed, Perplexity AI has previously gathered $1 billion in investments from notable entities such as SoftBank and Nvidia. Additionally, several unnamed financial sources have expressed readiness to fully finance the deal, pending Alphabet’s approval, as per reports from Reuters.

Alphabet’s Position and Legal Considerations

Currently, Alphabet has not indicated any intention to sell Google Chrome. The tech giant is also contending with a recent U.S. court decision that labeled Google’s control over the online search market as unlawfully monopolistic. The U.S. Department of Justice has suggested that divesting Chrome could be a potential remedy to this legal challenge, with a federal judge expected to make a ruling soon.

The Broader Context: AI and Web Browsers

The acquisition proposal comes at a time when web browsers are becoming increasingly crucial due to their role as gateways to internet traffic and valuable user data. Perplexity AI, which already operates its AI-driven browser called Comet, aims to leverage Chrome’s vast user base to compete more effectively with major tech entities like OpenAI.

Other Interested Parties

Perplexity AI is not the only company showing interest in Google Chrome. Other major players, including OpenAI, Yahoo, and Apollo Global Management, have also been linked to potential bids for the browser, highlighting its strategic importance in the tech ecosystem.

Market Reactions

Following the announcement of the bid, Alphabet’s stock price experienced a modest increase, while Nvidia’s shares remained relatively stable. Conversely, SoftBank’s shares saw a significant rise, reflecting the market’s optimistic outlook on the potential deal.

Concluding Thoughts

The unsolicited bid by Perplexity AI to acquire Google Chrome marks a significant moment in the tech industry, reflecting the intense competition and strategic maneuvers among leading and emerging tech companies. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Alphabet’s response and the potential reshaping of the tech landscape should this bold acquisition proceed.