Perplexity AI Seeks $20 Billion Valuation Amid Chrome Acquisition Bid

Perplexity AI is reportedly preparing for a new funding round, targeting a $20 billion valuation. This move comes shortly after the company made an unsolicited $34.5 billion offer to acquire Google's Chrome browser. The proposed acquisition is part of Perplexity's strategy to expand its presence in the web browser market, leveraging its AI-powered search capabilities.

The company's valuation has seen a dramatic increase, rising 3,746% since January 2024, when it was valued at $520 million. Perplexity's growth has been fueled by its AI browser, Comet, which has achieved an annual recurring revenue of $80 million and boasts 22 million monthly active users.

The bid for Chrome comes amid ongoing antitrust pressures on Google, which may be forced to divest the browser. Other potential buyers, including OpenAI, Apollo Global Management, and Yahoo, have also shown interest in acquiring Chrome. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the deal, Perplexity's ambitious offer has drawn significant attention from investors and industry observers.