Perplexity AI, a fast-growing artificial intelligence company, has offered $34.5 billion in cash to buy Google’s Chrome browser. The news has caught the attention of the tech world because Chrome is one of the most popular web browsers in the world, with more than 3 billion users.
This offer is unusual because Perplexity is much smaller than Google. The company is valued at only about $14 to $18 billion, yet it is offering almost double its value to buy Chrome. This shows how important Chrome could be for Perplexity’s future.
Why Perplexity AI Wants to Buy Chrome Browser
Perplexity AI is known for creating an AI-powered search engine that competes with Google Search. If it owns Chrome, it could reach billions of people directly through the browser they use every day.
The company’s CEO, Aravind Srinivas, has said that they want to keep Chrome open-source and make sure it stays fast, secure, and easy to use. Perplexity also promised that Google Search would remain the default search engine in Chrome, at least for now. This is meant to assure users that their browsing habits would not change overnight.
Big Investment Promise for Chrome Development
As part of the deal, Perplexity said it would invest $3 billion over the next two years to improve Chrome. This money would go toward making the browser faster, adding better privacy tools, and keeping it safe from online threats.
They also said they would work closely with developers around the world to make sure Chrome continues to support all types of websites and apps. For users, this means Chrome would likely remain familiar but could gain new features.
The timing of Perplexity’s offer is important. Google is currently facing antitrust cases in the United States. Regulators are investigating whether Google has too much control over internet search and web browsers.
Some experts believe that Google might be forced to sell Chrome in the future if the courts decide it is a monopoly. Perplexity’s offer puts them in a strong position if Chrome does become available for sale. They are showing the world and the regulators that they are ready to buy.
Google Says Chrome Is Not for Sale
Despite the bold offer, Google has made no sign that it wants to sell Chrome. The browser is a key part of Google’s ecosystem, helping it collect data, show ads, and keep people using its services.
Industry analysts say it is unlikely Google would agree to sell voluntarily. Even if regulators force a sale, the legal process could take years. Google has also argued that removing Chrome from its business would harm innovation and user experience.
If Perplexity somehow managed to buy Chrome, it could change the balance of power in the tech world. For the first time, an AI-focused company could own the most-used web browser. This might lead to more competition in search engines and could even make browsing more personalized with AI features.
However, there are also concerns. Some fear that new ownership could bring changes to how data is collected and used. Others believe it could spark a bidding war, with other big tech companies also trying to buy Chrome.
