Perplexity AI startup seeks to buy Google Chrome
Google has long been king of SEO, and most SEO efforts are focused on increasing search results on Google’s own SERPs. At the same time, Google has launched and operated a web browser called Chrome, which can be used on smartphones, tablets and desktop or laptop computers. It is one of the most popular browsers in the world, but Google’s role with it may be changing.
Part of the issue is that Google is involved in an antitrust suit. The U.S. Department of Justice has said that one step they could take as part of this case is to sell Chrome. Google has been accused of having a monopoly and dominating the internet search world, so divesting itself of Chrome could help show that they are not trying to create such a monopoly.
Who is Perplexity?
Recently, a company named Perplexity, which is an AI startup, made an offer to buy Google Chrome. Their offer is for $34.5 billion.
This is a very interesting offer because, according to reports, it was unsolicited. Google did not ask Perplexity to buy Chrome, but Perplexity is simply stating how much they would be willing to pay and putting their name into the ring.
It is also notable because Perplexity is a startup that is currently valued at $18 billion. They operate an AI-powered browser called Comet. Acquiring Chrome may give them the chance to integrate their own AI technology into a platform that is already widely used, but the offer is for more than Perplexity’s own company valuation.
Perplexity claims this will not be an issue because they have investors supporting the deal. It is unclear exactly who those investors are, but Perplexity is likely seeking to purchase Chrome as part of the race to become the top option in the artificial intelligence space. This includes competition from companies like Google, Meta, and OpenAI, along with many others.
What will this mean for the future?
This may ultimately mean nothing, as the bid was unsolicited and the purchase may never happen. However, it highlights the changing landscape of AI and SEO, so it is important to keep an eye on these developments. If you have any questions about SEO, our team can help here at Content Customs.
