Apple is reportedly contemplating a bid to acquire AI startup Perplexity AI, which is recognized for its innovative AI-driven web search engine, according to insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Key executives involved in Apple’s AI initiatives, including mergers and acquisitions chief Adrian Perica and services head Eddy Cue, are engaged in early-stage discussions regarding a potential acquisition. However, there is no certainty that these discussions will result in an official offer.
Perplexity AI has recently been valued at $14 billion in its funding round, which, if an acquisition occurs, would mark a monumental transaction for Apple—significantly larger than its $3 billion acquisition of Beats a decade ago. The potential acquisition is further complicated by Apple’s existing agreement with Google, which generates approximately $20 billion annually for Apple, as the ongoing antitrust trial against Google could influence this deal.
There is also speculation that Apple may consider a partnership with Perplexity to enhance its Safari browser and Siri with Perplexity’s AI capabilities, given that the two companies have engaged in discussions about integrating technology. Meanwhile, Perplexity is reportedly close to finalizing a significant agreement with Samsung, potentially bringing its AI features to Samsung devices, which could complicate Apple’s ambitions.
This situation underscores the competitive landscape of AI technologies and the lengths to which major tech companies are willing to go to enhance their offerings. As companies race to develop advanced AI solutions, the outcome of these discussions could have substantial implications for both Apple and the wider technology ecosystem.
Overall, while there’s much uncertainty regarding the acquisition or partnership, the interest highlights the growing importance of AI in shaping future technological developments.