Hard Fork AI Rethinking Perplexity Bids To Buy Google!: Inside the david vs. goliath tech battle
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Aug 18, 2025 An ambitious AI startup has made waves with a bold $34.5 billion offer to acquire Google Chrome, stirring up discussions on the future of search and advertising. The motivations behind this drastic move reveal deep-rooted ambitions and potential industry disruption. As the tech world watches, the implications for digital innovation and ongoing legal challenges facing Google take center stage. This battle could reshape the landscape of technology, regardless of the outcome.
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Perplexity's Strategic Chrome Play
- Perplexity offered $34.5B cash to buy Google Chrome amid antitrust pressure that might force a divestiture.
- Owning Chrome would give Perplexity massive distribution for its search product and browser tech like Comet.
Monitor Antitrust Outcomes Closely
- Watch antitrust rulings closely because they can force structural changes like divesting Chrome.
- Expect swift interest from competitors and startups when major platform ownership becomes uncertain.
Perplexity's Comet Browser Example
- Perplexity already launched its own AI-first browser called Comet, priced at $200/month.
- Comet's agent-like features illustrate why Perplexity would value Chrome integration.