Perplexity Considers Buying Chrome Amid Google's Antitrust Trial

In a significant moment during the ongoing antitrust trial against Google, AI startup Perplexity expressed interest in acquiring the Chrome browser, yet the company’s chief business officer, Dmitry Shevelenko, emphasized a preference for Google to retain its open-source browser. Shevelenko raised concerns about the potential consequences of a forced sale, particularly if the browser were to be acquired by competing companies like OpenAI, which has shown interest in Chrome as well. During his testimony, Shevelenko stated that Perplexity could potentially manage Chrome effectively without compromising quality or overwhelming costs. However, he also highlighted the challenges posed by Google's existing agreements with telecom companies, which he believes restricts access for smaller companies seeking to innovate in the space of AI and digital services. Perplexity is also developing its own browser, known as Comet, as a contingency plan should a divestiture occur. Shevelenko's testimony underscores the pervasive reach of Google in the digital ecosystem, particularly its exclusive contracts that hinder competition. His candid remarks also reflect a tension between the desire for healthy competition in technology and the recognition of Google’s substantial contributions to the development and improvement of digital products. Perplexity has voiced concern over the future of Google's Chromium base, stressing that seeing it in the hands of a competitor could inhibit innovation. This situation signals a broader concern regarding monopolistic practices in the tech industry, particularly regarding heavyweights like Google and how their market power stifles smaller competitors. Furthermore, Perplexity's previous interest in acquiring TikTok illustrates a clear strategy aimed at taking advantage of gaps left by larger corporations that might be in legal jeopardy. As the case unfolds, the implications for industry-wide practices, particularly the handling of proprietary technologies and distribution networks, will be critical. The Justice Department’s insistence on dismantling Google’s entrenched partnerships could pave the way for change, but it remains to be seen how this will impact current market dynamics and consumer choices. With Shevelenko's experiences, including the difficulties Perplexity faced in becoming the default AI assistant on Android devices, it becomes apparent that navigating the tech landscape dominated by giants like Google is fraught with obstacles, even for ambitious startups. This issue raises important questions about how innovation can thrive in a space that seems increasingly closed off to new entrants.