Overview
In a stunning turn of events, AI startup Perplexity has placed an unsolicited $34.5 billion all-cash bid to acquire Google’s Chrome browser. The move comes amid the ongoing U.S. antitrust case against Google, which could potentially force the tech giant to divest its most popular browser.
💡 Why It Matters
- Chrome’s Market Power: Chrome commands over 60% of the global browser market, making it a strategic asset in the internet ecosystem.
- Antitrust Pressure: A federal judge previously ruled that Google holds an unlawful monopoly over online search, and is now considering remedies—including the sale of Chrome.
📊 The Offer Breakdown
- Bid Amount: $34.5 billion (all cash).
- Backers: Supported by unnamed investment funds ready to finance the deal fully.
- Promises:
- Keep Chromium engine open-source.
- Maintain Google as the default search engine (with user override).
- Invest $3 billion over 2 years into Chrome’s development.
⚖️ The Legal Backdrop
- Case Status: Judge Amit Mehta is expected to rule on remedies this month.
- Google’s Stand: Strongly opposes divestiture, arguing it would harm innovation, user experience, and even national security.
- Potential Delay: Even if ordered, appeals could delay a sale for years.
🏁 Other Bidders Lining Up
- OpenAI and Yahoo (backed by Apollo Global Management) have also expressed interest.
- Analysts doubt Google will willingly sell, but if forced, competition for Chrome could be fierce.
📉 Market Impact Predictions
- Alphabet Stock Risk: Barclays warns a Chrome divestiture could cause a 15–25% stock drop for Alphabet.
- Partial Remedies: Lesser measures may still trim stock value by 5–10%.
🔮 What’s Next?
- Court ruling in August 2025 will determine if Google must sell.
- If Perplexity succeeds, it could reshape the AI + browser + search industry landscape.
Bottom Line: This isn’t just a tech acquisition bid—it’s a high-stakes legal and market battle that could redefine the internet’s future. Whether Chrome changes hands or not, the ripple effects will be felt across search, AI, and online advertising for years to come.
Note: This is just information may be rumour.