Don’t break up Google, let users choose, says Perplexity CEO

Perplexity is developing a Chromium-based browser called Comet to challenge Google’s search dominance, while also exploring partnerships with brands like Samsung and Motorola to embed its AI assistant in upcoming Android smartphones

As the US Department of Justice (DoJ) intensifies its legal pursuit against Google over alleged monopolistic practices in search, Aravind Srinivas, co-founder and CEO of AI search startup Perplexity, has voiced strong opposition to breaking up the tech giant. Instead, he advocates for reforms that empower consumers to make their own choices regarding default services on Android devices.

Srinivas's remarks were part of a proposal submitted during the remedies phase of the ongoing antitrust trial that began on April 21. The proceedings follow a federal ruling in August 2024 that found Google guilty of using unfair practices to maintain its dominance in search. The DoJ is now proposing drastic remedies, including the divestment of Chrome, enforced data sharing with competitors, and an end to exclusive partnerships with companies like Apple.

However, Srinivas argues these measures overlook the core issue: the lack of meaningful choice for users and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). “The real solution lies in giving users the ability to choose their default search engine and voice assistant—easily and transparently,” he stated. He also emphasized that OEMs should be allowed to offer alternatives without fear of losing access to essential Google apps like Play Store, Maps, and YouTube.

He criticized Google for making it overly difficult for users to switch defaults, saying such settings are often buried deep in device menus. “Most users don’t even realize these changes are possible,” he said. Srinivas added that even when better alternatives exist, OEMs feel compelled to stick with Google's ecosystem due to financial incentives and restrictions tied to Android licensing.

Perplexity eyes browser disruption

Perplexity, which is developing a Chromium-based browser called Comet, hopes to challenge Google’s search dominance with its own answer engine. The company is reportedly in discussions with brands like Samsung and Motorola to integrate its AI assistant into future Android devices.

Srinivas praised Google for open-sourcing Chromium, noting that it has enabled innovation across the browser space, including Microsoft’s Edge. Still, he warned that scale and execution alone should not allow any one company to control user experience.

In response, Google has rejected the DoJ’s proposed break-up as unnecessary and damaging. Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, argued that dismantling platforms like Chrome and Android would disrupt the tech ecosystem, harm developers, and hinder advancements in AI. She pointed to rising competition from global players like DeepSeek and new technologies such as ChatGPT as evidence that the market remains competitive.

As the trial proceeds, the debate continues over how best to promote competition without stifling innovation or user experience in the digital age.