Google Risks Losing Chrome as Perplexity Bid Intensifies Breakup Debate

Perplexity AI’s $34.5 billion bid to buy Google Chrome marks a pivotal moment as Google nears its 20th IPO anniversary. The offer, though not widely taken seriously, highlights potential divestiture following a U.S. antitrust ruling declaring Google a monopoly in search. The DOJ has suggested Chrome’s divestiture to level the search market, opposed by Google. Alphabet, Google’s parent, has diversified beyond search, heavily investing in AI while maintaining strong ad revenue. Analysts see a breakup as a potential benefit for shareholders, allowing investors to directly own specific businesses. Alphabet has not commented on the bid.