Google is giant that can't be denied. Perplexity to become a Giant Killer ??
Well, the stunt says so. But how?
Let's talk about this latest wild tech story.
You know how Google has been the king of search forever?
Perplexity AI just threw a curveball.
This isn't just any startup thinking big. This is definitely a calculated strike at Google's empire at the right time when they're weak.
They're trying to shake things up big time.
I'm excited to break it down for you, like we're grabbing coffee and geeking out over AI.
The Daring Proposal That Rattled the Tech Industry
Picture this: Perplexity makes a huge $34.5 billion all-cash offer for Google's Chrome browser.
Crazy, right? Chrome has over 3 billion users worldwide.
They call it "Project Solomon."
Perplexity promises to keep it open-source, pump in $3 billion over two years, and even keep Google as the default search.
All while the U.S. DOJ is pushing Google to sell Chrome due to antitrust issues.
Is this the start of Perplexity overtaking Google?
Let's dig in.
The impact of this move is huge:
Chrome has 3.4-3.7 billion users all over the world and makes up 60-70% of the world browser share.
For Perplexity- this isn't just getting a browser. This is like buying the main door to the web.
A Quick Introduction to These Giants
Google? They've ruled search since the early days.
90% market share, billions of queries daily.
But now, people are unhappy with too many ads and innovations are being seen.
Whereas, Perplexity Owner, Aravind Srinivas founded in 2022.
Backed by big names like Jeff Bezos, valued at $18 billion.
It's an "answer engine" that gives you straight, cited responses.
No ad clutter.
Manages 780 million queries monthly, with about 30 million users currently active.
Their Comet browser? It provides a summary of tabs and automates tasks using AI.
Cool alternative if you're tired of Google's vibe.
Perplexity to buy Chrome- Is it simply a publicity stunt or a legitimate plan?
Okay, let's get real; why bid $34.5 billion when you're worth half that?
Some say it's a genius marketing move.
It grabs headlines, puts Perplexity in the spotlight, and gets people to try Comet. All to get some free attention.
On X, people are like, "This cost nothing but got them everywhere."
But hey, it could be serious too.
Grabbing Chrome means instant access to billions for AI tweaks and data.
Pros: Huge visibility, user pull.
Cons: Do they even have the cash? Google probably says no.
I think it's a bit of both, smart play either way.
Head-to-Head Features: Who Wins Where?
Alright, let's compare them.
Perplexity shines in clean, AI-summarized answers with sources.
Google? Great for quick links but loaded with ads.
Here's a simple table to see it clearly:
Aspect |
Perplexity |
|
Search Style |
Conversational summaries, no ads |
Links + AI overviews, ad-heavy |
Accuracy |
Strong on research, cited facts |
Good for news, but sometimes off |
UX |
Simple, focused |
Familiar, but busy |
Integrations |
AI agents in Comet |
Ties to everything Google |
Innovation |
Proactive AI helpers |
Gemini upgrades, but slower |
Perplexity feels fresh for deep questions.
For basic things, Google is the best because of its ecosystem.
How Users Are Engaging with the Platform
Users are all in on Perplexity. Reddit users say they made the switch for research.
"Google who?" some joke.
On X, Comet scores big for smart web browsing.
They're at millions of users and still rising fast.
But Google's Chrome? It has 3 billion users.
Perplexity's niche is tech people, but they might draw more regular users now.
Post-Bid User Growth: The Numbers Tell the Story
It has not been long since the bid, and we are still waiting for the full stats.
Yet, the talk is loud and headlines all over must have made more people look.
Looking at past growth and early talk, here is a graph showing daily visits (in millions, guessed from things like their 191% rise in visitors earlier this year).
See it as a brief look at how the buzz is making waves.
Aug 10: ** (1.0M)
Aug 11: *** (1.1M)
Aug 12 (Bid Day): **** (1.2M)
Aug 13: ******** (2.0M)
Aug 14: ********** (2.5M)
Aug 15: ************ (3.0M)
Aug 16: ************** (3.5M)
See the rise right after the 12th? That shows what big news can do.
If this goes on, the number of users each month might jump from 22 to 30 million fast.
Exciting to Watch!
Antitrust Drama: Could This Be a Game Changer?
The DOJ(Department of Justice) says Google has a monopoly, might make them let go of Chrome. You can check the story here
Perplexity's bid comes at a good time, betting on new ideas without mess.
- If it goes through, the fight for search gets hot.
- Even if it does not, it pushes Google to step up their game.
What Perplexity Could Do in the Future?
Looking ahead, Perplexity has huge chances.
Comet already does cool things like quick summaries and auto-tasks.
They might lead the "agentic AI" field; proactive aids that see what you need next.
With Chrome, think of a personalized AI for Billions.
Niche like research or shopping? They could rule, with 10-20% of the market by 2030.
Yet, it all rests on staying ahead of the big talk.
What Experts Are Saying
People have mixed views.
They wonder if “Perplexity is the next Google" with Comet's brain.
On X, some are calling it a "Google killer"
Others think it will light up new ideas but won't top everything.
Fun talk!
Final Thoughts: Viewpoint and What is Next
Is Perplexity buying Google? Chrome to be exact; not yet, they still fall short in size and range.
Yet, they are a new challenger, surely with this bid and AI lead.
If they perfect Agentic AI, watch out.
Even if Google keeps Chrome, Perplexity has already gained attention and a spot in the AI-search fight.
They've declared that they aren't just another search tool - they're set to take over all of Google's web infrastructure.
What about you? which one do you use more?
Drop your thoughts, share it if you liked our talk!
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