Perplexity offers $34.5 billion to acquire Chrome browser, AI search engine David vs. Goliath

AI search startup Perplexity offers $34.5 billion to acquire Google Chrome, aiming to reshape the browser landscape as the Google antitrust ruling approaches. (Background: OpenAI: We are 'willing to buy Chrome' if Google is forced to sell, to provide users with a truly AI-centered search experience) (Context: The U.S. Department of Justice insists on Google divesting Chrome browser, will it affect the Web3 ecosystem?) Silicon Valley sees a David vs. Goliath scenario, as AI search startup Perplexity recently presented a $34.5 billion proposal to Google to acquire Chrome, dropping a heavyweight bomb in the heated antitrust battleground. This acquisition proposal not only far exceeds Perplexity's own estimated valuation of about $18 billion but is also timed just before the federal court is set to announce antitrust remedies. The price tag behind the calculation: funding, marketing, and regulatory leverage. According to the Wall Street Journal, Perplexity has secured commitments from several major venture capital firms to ensure funding is in place. In a letter to Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, the company emphasized that if the court requires Google to divest assets, it would be in the public interest for Chrome to be in the hands of 'capable and independent operators.' This letter propelled Perplexity to the tech headlines overnight and garnered valuable exposure for its newly launched proprietary browser, Comet, strategically converting Google's current regulatory pressure into its own market presence. Chrome may be forced to divest in the future. The U.S. Department of Justice accused Google of monopolizing the search market in 2020, and federal judge Amit Mehta already ruled last year that Google violated antitrust laws. Later this month, the court will announce remedies, which may include restricting Google from paying default search fees to device manufacturers, requiring data sharing with competitors, or even the most drastic option of forcing the sale of Chrome. Currently, Chrome has over 3.5 billion users and holds more than 60% market share, serving as a gateway for Google’s advertising and search business, and is the focal point of the ruling discussions. Positions and feasibility of the deal According to reports, Perplexity has promised that if the deal is completed, it will provide at least 100 months of ongoing support and invest $3 billion to enhance the Chrome product while allowing users to freely choose default settings. The company claims it will fulfill its investment commitment within two years. Currently, Google has not commented on the offer, but the CEO previously pointed out in court that forcing the sale of Chrome or sharing critical data would stifle investment and undermine security. Observers also believe that the judge may ultimately adopt a more moderate solution, making the likelihood of forcing the divestiture of Chrome low. However, even if the court only restricts exclusive payments, Google will inevitably need to readjust its collaboration approach with platforms like Apple and Mozilla. From search to generative AI, the competitive center still revolves around 'who holds the entry point.' Perplexity's move ties startup ambitions, capital support, and political timing together, executing a brilliant strategy for AI companies seeking footing in regulatory gaps. Related reports: Musk's stern question: Can quantum computers crack Bitcoin? Tesla Diner opens to great success! What surprises has Musk brought to people with Tesla charging stations and American cuisine? Peter Thiel discusses humanity's stagnation: Starting in 2024, Musk no longer believes in Mars. This article titled 'Perplexity offers $34.5 billion to acquire Chrome browser, AI search engine David vs. Goliath' was first published on BlockTempo (the most influential blockchain news media).