On August 12, 2025, Perplexity AI made an unsolicited offer of $34.5 billion to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, nearly doubling its valuation of $18 billion. CEO Aravind Srinivas stated that the proposal aims to “satisfy an antitrust remedy in the highest public interest,” positioning Perplexity as an independent operator focused on continuity and consumer protection, according to a letter obtained by AFP.
The offer comes at a time when a ruling from U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta is pending regarding Google’s alleged illegal search monopoly. The U.S. Department of Justice is advocating for the divestiture of Chrome in order to reduce Google’s dominance on the internet, particularly in light of advancements in AI, per CNBC. Google opposes the sale, arguing that it extends beyond the lawsuit’s scope and could negatively impact innovation and users worldwide, as over 80% of Chrome users are located outside of the U.S.
AI startup Perplexity made a formal offer to acquire Google’s Chrome browser for $34.5 billion, an audacious bid to get ahead of a potential requirement for the search giant to sell the web browser in US antitrust proceedings https://t.co/bUXwakUyp0 pic.twitter.com/wUsW3W4829
— Bloomberg TV (@BloombergTV) August 12, 2025Baird Equity Research has labelled the bid as undervaluing Chrome, suggesting that Perplexity may be attempting to generate competing offers or sway the antitrust outcome, according to Forbes. Analysts noted that with its own browser, Comet, Perplexity could gain advantages from an independent Chrome. Jennifer Huddleston from the Cato Institute cautioned that divestiture could hinder competition and weaken the Chrome browser, ultimately affecting users worldwide.
Read: OpenAI to Launch AI-Powered Browser to Challenge Google Chrome’s Dominance
The bid reflects the growing role of AI in reshaping internet access, with competitors like Microsoft and Perplexity leveraging generative AI. Google’s heavy AI investments signal a competitive response. The ruling, expected by month’s end, could redefine browser market dynamics and antitrust precedents, influencing global tech ecosystems.
Perplexity’s $34.5 billion offer for Chrome highlights antitrust tensions and AI’s impact on tech markets, potentially reshaping internet access.
