Perplexity AI makes offer of $34.5 billion to acquire Google’s Chrome amid antitrust case

Perplexity AI has offered Google approximately $34.5 billion to acquire its widely used Chrome web browser, which the tech giant may be required to sell as part of ongoing antitrust proceedings, as per media reports.

The proposed amount, outlined in a reported letter of intent, is said to be nearly double Perplexity’s own estimated valuation of $18 billion from a recent funding round. Sources indicate that the San Francisco-based startup positioned the offer as a potential antitrust remedy, aiming to transfer Chrome to an independent operator committed to continuity, openness, and user protection.

The move comes as Google awaits a ruling from US District Court Judge Amit Mehta on potential remedies following a previous decision that found the company maintained an illegal monopoly in online search. Government lawyers have reportedly urged that Chrome be divested, arguing that advancements in artificial intelligence could further cement Google’s dominance as the primary gateway to the internet.

Industry analysts have noted that Perplexity already operates its own competing browser, suggesting the bid could be intended to prompt other offers or influence the court’s decision. They further observed that an independent Chrome could provide a strategic advantage to Perplexity in increasing its browser market share.

Google has maintained that the divestment proposal exceeds the scope of the original lawsuit and has pushed back against the idea of a forced sale, which could also extend to its Android mobile operating system. Judge Mehta’s decision is expected before the end of the month.