Perplexity AI, led by Indian-origin CEO Aravind Srinivas, has made a surprising all-cash bid of $34.5 billion (₹3,02,152 crore) to acquire Google Chrome. This offer dwarfs Perplexity’s own $14 billion valuation and arrives amid growing U.S. antitrust pressure on Google, which includes proposals to force the sale of Chrome.
While Google has not indicated any intention to sell its flagship browser, Perplexity’s bid is notable for its promises to keep Chrome open-source, invest $3 billion in the platform, and preserve default search engine settings. If successful, Perplexity would gain access to Chrome’s massive user base of 3 billion globally—significantly boosting its position in the AI search market.
Founded in 2022 and backed by Nvidia and SoftBank, Perplexity is known for its conversational AI platform and the Comet browser. The startup recently partnered with Airtel to bring its AI tools to millions in India. Though experts are skeptical Google will sell, the bold bid adds a new layer to the intensifying battle for control over AI-driven search and digital dominance.
