Perplexity AI's Unprecedented Move

In a surprising turn of events, artificial intelligence startup Perplexity has made an unsolicited offer to purchase Alphabet Inc.'s Google Chrome for a staggering $34.5 billion. This bold move has sent ripples through the tech industry, showcasing Perplexity's ambitious growth trajectory.

The Financial Backing

According to the Wall Street Journal, Perplexity has secured funding from several investors, enabling this offer which nearly doubles its current valuation of $18 billion. The startup's audacious bid is not just a business move but is framed as a solution to antitrust concerns, aiming to place Chrome under "a capable, independent operator."

Google's Stance on Antitrust

This development comes amidst ongoing antitrust scrutiny against Google. CEO Sundar Pichai has previously expressed concerns that forced asset sales or data sharing could hamper the company's innovation and business operations. Perplexity's offer, therefore, adds a new layer to the ongoing debate around big tech's market dominance.