Samsung is reportedly in advanced discussions to invest in Perplexity AI, the startup known for its citation-backed, real-time AI search engine.
Highlights
- AI alliance in the works: Samsung is reportedly negotiating a major investment and technology integration deal with Perplexity AI, a real-time, citation-based AI search startup.
- Deep mobile integration planned: Possible touchpoints include pre-installed apps, browser-based AI search, and enhanced Bixby functionality on future Galaxy devices.
- Galaxy S26 could be the testbed: Samsung may debut Perplexity integration in its upcoming Galaxy S26 series, signaling a shift away from Google’s Gemini AI assistant.
- Rethinking voice AI: Perplexity’s generative capabilities could make Bixby more responsive and context-aware, improving Samsung’s voice assistant ecosystem.
- Cross-industry interest rising: Apple and Motorola are also eyeing Perplexity integrations, reflecting a growing demand for real-time, verifiable AI search alternatives.
- Strategic shift for Samsung: This move could help Samsung reduce reliance on Google while delivering more transparent and personalized AI experiences.
- A broader mobile AI evolution: As user expectations shift from hardware specs to intelligent features, Samsung’s Perplexity deal highlights the race to redefine mobile innovation.
According to a recent Bloomberg report, the proposed collaboration may involve deep integration of Perplexity’s technology into Samsung Galaxy smartphones, including pre-installed apps, browser-based search capabilities, and potential enhancements to Samsung’s voice assistant, Bixby.
The discussions, still ongoing, could result in Samsung becoming one of Perplexity’s largest backers in its latest funding round.
Perplexity is currently raising approximately $500 million at a valuation of $14 billion—reflecting increased investor interest in AI platforms that combine utility with conversational interfaces.
Potential Shift in Samsung’s AI Strategy
If finalized, this partnership could mark a notable shift in Samsung’s AI roadmap. Reports suggest the company is considering replacing Google’s Gemini AI assistant with Perplexity’s technology in future devices, including the upcoming Galaxy S26 series.
This move would give Samsung greater control over its AI infrastructure, potentially reducing its dependence on Google’s ecosystem.
Such a shift also highlights a broader industry trend: leading tech companies are increasingly seeking to diversify their AI partnerships, aiming for differentiation in user experience and product strategy.
Areas of Integration Under Consideration
According to sources familiar with the matter, Samsung is exploring several key touchpoints for integrating Perplexity AI across its devices:
- Pre-installed Applications: Future Galaxy smartphones may ship with Perplexity’s conversational assistant and AI-powered search app pre-installed.
- Browser Integration: Samsung’s default internet browser could feature Perplexity’s AI-driven search, replacing or supplementing traditional engines.
- Bixby Enhancement: Perplexity’s generative AI capabilities may be used to strengthen Bixby, Samsung’s voice assistant, potentially improving its responsiveness and contextual understanding.
Industry-Wide Interest in Perplexity AI
Samsung is not the only company reportedly considering Perplexity AI. Apple has been exploring the possibility of adding Perplexity as a search option in Safari, while Motorola recently announced plans to integrate the technology into future devices.
This expanding interest across major OEMs suggests that AI-native search tools are becoming an increasingly central component of mobile user interfaces.
Perplexity distinguishes itself through real-time answers supported by citations, which many see as a more transparent and verifiable alternative to traditional web search.
For Samsung, a partnership with Perplexity could help achieve two key objectives: strengthening its position in the competitive AI assistant landscape, and reducing dependency on legacy providers such as Google.
At a time when the industry is pivoting from hardware specifications to intelligent features, Samsung’s possible alignment with Perplexity underscores a larger transformation in how mobile innovation is being defined.
