When an Indian origin CEO of Perplexity buy Chrome, the global tech community takes notice. In a stunning announcement, Aravind Srinivas, the Indian–American founder and CEO of Perplexity AI, offered $34.5 billion in cash to acquire Google’s Chrome browser — a move that could rewrite the rules of internet access and AI integration.
This audacious offer not only raises eyebrows because of its size (almost double Perplexity’s own valuation) but also because it challenges one of Google’s crown jewels at a time when the company faces growing antitrust pressure.
The Bold Bid
Perplexity AI’s proposal includes:
Keeping Chromium’s code open-source. Retaining Google as the default search engine — while giving users freedom to change it. Investing $3 billion into Chrome and Chromium over the next two years. Retaining key Chrome staff with guarantees of at least 100 months of uninterrupted support.
Srinivas insists that when an Indian origin CEO of Perplexity buy Chrome, it’s not just an acquisition — it’s a vision for the future of browsing with AI at its core.
Why Chrome Matters
Google Chrome dominates the browser market with over 60% market share and 3+ billion users worldwide. It’s not just a browser — it’s a massive distribution channel for Google Search, ads, and services. By controlling Chrome, Perplexity could instantly gain a foothold in billions of devices and redirect the browsing experience toward AI-first search and assistance.
The timing is interesting: Google is under U.S. Department of Justice scrutiny after a ruling found it had illegally monopolized search. Regulators have even floated the possibility of breaking up its operations — including spinning off Chrome.
What’s in It for Perplexity
Instant User Base – Billions of active Chrome users overnight. AI Integration – Directly embedding Perplexity’s AI-powered “answer engine” into browsing. Brand Credibility – Moving from being an emerging AI startup to a household name. Search Disruption – Challenging Google’s dominance by turning the browser into a conversational search hub.
If an Indian origin CEO of Perplexity buy Chrome, the benefits could be huge.
For Srinivas, an India-origin CEO of Perplexity offers billion dollars to buy Chrome not just for market share, but for a strategic leap in the AI arms race.
The Reality Check
Despite the boldness, there are major roadblocks:
Funding Gap – Perplexity is valued at around $18 billion; the $34.5 billion bid would require substantial external financing. Google’s Resistance – Chrome is tightly integrated into Google’s ecosystem; selling it would mean losing a massive revenue pipeline. Regulatory Approval – Any acquisition would face intense global scrutiny, given Chrome’s market share.
Industry & Regulatory Reactions
Industry analysts are split. Some call it a publicity stunt; others see it as a visionary move to challenge Big Tech’s monopoly. Estimates of Chrome’s real value range from $50 billion to $100 billion, suggesting Perplexity’s offer may be far too low for Google to even consider.
Regulators, however, may see such bids as proof that viable competitors could take over if Chrome were divested.
Bigger Picture
The bid is more than just about buying a browser — it’s about controlling the gateway to the internet. In an age where AI is redefining how we search, browse, and consume information, the platform that owns the browser could shape the future of online interaction.
Even if this acquisition never happens, Perplexity has positioned itself in the global conversation — and possibly nudged regulators closer to forcing Google’s hand.
Closing Thoughts
Whether this ends as a deal or a daring headline, the fact remains — when an Indian origin CEO of Perplexity buy Chrome, it signals a new era where startups can challenge Big Tech’s dominance. The future of browsing, search, and AI might just be rewritten.
