Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas recently spoke out against Google’s practice of forcing Chrome as the default browser on Android devices. After launching Perplexity’s AI-powered browser Comet on July 9, he stated on X that “Chrome shouldn’t be forced as default browser on Android”, and suggested Android onboarding should prompt users to choose their preferred browser—be it Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, or Comet
Why It Matters
Srinivas emphasized that no other company can run a browser at Chrome’s scale without sacrificing quality or profitability, so instead of breaking up Chrome, the focus should be on offering real user choice. He argues this approach would enable competition—especially for alternatives like Perplexity’s Comet—without compromising the user experience or security that Chrome offers.
Market Context & Antitrust Shadow
Google is currently facing antitrust remedies that include potential divestment of Chrome or Android. Srinivas supports keeping Chrome within Google but also calls for Android to open up default choices without restrictions on OEMs and revenue-sharing with Google. Perplexity plans to offer Comet, built on Chromium, as an option should the market open up
Broader Implications
- User empowerment: Enabling browser choice enhances consumer control and encourages better innovation.
- Regulatory balance: Remedies focused on choice may achieve competition more smartly than structural breakups.
- Perplexity’s strategy: Launching Comet positions Perplexity to fill gaps in search and browsing, especially on Android.
Bottom Line
Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas contends that Google should not force users to keep Chrome as the default browser, advocating instead for a user-choice model at Android setup. This stance supports innovation and competition while preserving Chrome’s quality and security, offering a balanced path amid ongoing antitrust debates.
