Perplexity AI, a startup backed by Nvidia, SoftBank, and Jeff Bezos, has made a $34.5 billion cash offer to acquire Google’s Chrome browser, as reported by Bloomberg. The offer comes amidst an impending ruling on remedies in the government’s case against Google, potentially including a divestiture of Chrome.

The offer exceeds Perplexity’s recent valuation of $20 billion, with the company experiencing rapid growth since its launch in 2022. The bid, which involves no equity component, pledges to keep Chromium code open source and commits $3 billion in investment over two years, as stated by Bloomberg.

Despite the bold move, industry analysts believe the offer undervalues Chrome, estimating its value closer to $100 billion. Legal experts caution that even if a sale is ordered, appeals could prolong the process for years, according to Reuters.

Perplexity’s annual recurring revenue has surged from $35 million to over $150 million, showcasing its rapid rise. The company is preparing to launch Comet, an AI-native browser capable of tasks like online shopping, Business Insider reports.

Rival AI giant OpenAI, along with Yahoo and Apollo Global Management, has also expressed interest in acquiring Chrome if regulators force Google to divest the browser, Reuters states. The strategic significance of Perplexity’s bid remains in question, as it keeps the startup in the spotlight of the AI search conversation, aiding in fundraising and attracting talent.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Perplexity AI Makes $34.5 Billion Cash Bid For Google Chrome, Backed By Funds As Analyst Says Offer ‘Vastly Undervalues’ Asset