Startup Perplexity AI, working in the field of artificial intelligence, is showing rapid growth and clearly ambitious plans for the future.
Record Valuation of Perplexity AI in the AI Market
In January 2024, Perplexity AI was valued at $520 million. In less than two years, the company achieved remarkable growth.
- Valuation of $20 billion, representing an increase of 3,746%; - Over $150 million in recurring annual revenue, compared to $35 million a year earlier.
Among its investors are giants like SoftBank, Nvidia, and Jeff Bezos. This success attracts new investments, as evidenced by the platform's growth to 22 million monthly users.
Bid to Acquire Google Chrome for $34.5 Billion
On August 12, 2025, Perplexity AI surprised the market by making an unsolicited offer of $34.5 billion to acquire Google Chrome, the browser that holds over 60% of the global market share. This proposal was made amid legal disputes between Google and the U.S. Department of Justice, which may force the company to divest Chrome to limit its dominance in the market.
Founded in 2022, the company did not hesitate to propose an amount exceeding its current valuation. To finance this operation, Perplexity secured commitments from several major venture capital funds, the names of which have not been disclosed. So far, the total amount raised is about $1.5 billion.
Strategy or Publicity Stunt?
The Chrome operation raises many questions. Some analysts view it as a strategic move to capture a significant market share and integrate a globally adopted product. Others consider it a publicity stunt aimed at attracting talent, investors, and users.
At the same time, some voices suggest a possible rapprochement with Apple, which is lagging in AI. Perplexity denied such rumors, claiming it is already taking center stage in the battle for the future of search and web browsing.
Perplexity AI asserts itself as a bold challenger against tech giants. With rapid growth and substantial bets on Chrome, the startup aims to reshape the market for web search and AI browsers.
