Perplexity AI Makes $34.5 Billion Play for Google’s Chrome

AI startup Perplexity has stunned the tech world with a $34.5 billion all-cash bid to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, the most widely used web browser on the planet. The offer, made public on August 12, 2025, comes as Google faces mounting antitrust pressure in the U.S., where regulators and the Justice Department are weighing remedies that could force the tech giant to divest Chrome.

The move follows a landmark ruling last year by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, who found that Google violated antitrust law by unlawfully maintaining its search dominance through default agreements with device makers and browser developers. Chrome, which serves as a crucial gateway to Google Search and its vast data ecosystem, is now a prime target for structural remedies.

Perplexity, valued at $18 billion and known for its AI-native Comet browser, says it can operate Chrome as an independent entity and restore real competition to the search sector. The company’s offer includes:

$34.5 billion in cash—a figure close to analyst estimates of Chrome’s standalone value.

A commitment to keep Chrome’s open-source Chromium engine intact.

Google as the default search engine—while preserving users’ ability to switch freely.

$3 billion in development investment over two years to expand Chrome’s capabilities.

Guaranteed 100 months of continued Chrome availability after the deal closes.

Perplexity says it has secured backing from major venture-capital firms to fully finance the acquisition.

If approved, the deal could transform the browser and search landscape. Perplexity has signaled plans to integrate AI-driven features and privacy tools, potentially challenging Google’s traditional search model. Regulators have argued that only major divestitures like Chrome will meaningfully reduce Google’s market power.

Google has yet to comment on the offer, and analysts caution the bid remains a long shot—Chrome is not formally for sale, and Google is expected to contest any forced breakup. Other potential suitors, including OpenAI and Yahoo, have also expressed interest if Chrome is put on the market.

Judge Mehta’s decision on remedies could come within weeks, making Chrome’s future—and the balance of power in internet search—one of the most closely watched developments in global tech.