Samsung to Invest Heavily in Perplexity AI Amid Integration Plans
Samsung Electronics Co. is reportedly on the cusp of finalising a significant agreement with AI startup Perplexity AI Inc. According to a report from Bloomberg, sources familiar with the discussions indicate that the partnership aims to deeply embed Perplexity’s advanced search technology within Samsung’s future range of devices.
The ongoing talks between the two technology powerhouses involve the potential pre-installation of Perplexity’s dedicated application and its intelligent assistant on upcoming Samsung smartphones and tablets. Furthermore, the collaboration is expected to extend to Samsung’s proprietary web browser, integrating Perplexity’s sophisticated search functionalities directly into the user’s browsing experience.
Adding another layer to the potential partnership, sources suggest that the companies have also explored the integration of Perplexity’s technology into Samsung’s existing virtual assistant, Bixby. This could significantly enhance Bixby’s capabilities in understanding context and retrieving information. Moreover, Samsung is reportedly aiming to offer Perplexity as a default assistant option within its flagship Galaxy S26 phone line, scheduled for launch in the first half of 2026, with announcements regarding the integrations potentially occurring as early as this year. However, the specific details of the agreement remain fluid and subject to change.
Samsung Expected as Major Investor in Perplexity Funding Round
Beyond the software integration, Samsung is also anticipated to be a key investor in Perplexity’s current funding round. The AI startup is reportedly in advanced discussions to raise a substantial $500 million, which would value the company at approximately $14 billion. This significant financial commitment underscores Samsung’s strategic interest in and belief in the potential of Perplexity’s technology.
Strategic Move to Diversify AI Reliance
This broad collaboration could strategically position Samsung to reduce its dependence on Alphabet Inc.’s Google for AI-powered services. This move mirrors a strategy adopted by Apple Inc., which has increasingly sought partnerships with a diverse range of AI developers for its devices and services. For Perplexity, this alliance with the world’s leading Android smartphone manufacturer would mark its most significant mobile partnership to date, building upon its recent integration deal with Motorola. Representatives from both Samsung and Perplexity have declined to comment on the ongoing discussions.
Reports indicate that the initial discussions between Samsung and Perplexity commenced earlier this year, with significant progress made during recent meetings held in South Korea. Experts believe that these in-person discussions brought the two companies closer to finalising a comprehensive agreement.
Exploring Future AI-Infused OS and Agent Apps
Looking beyond the immediate integrations, Samsung and Perplexity are also reportedly exploring ambitious long-term collaborations. These discussions include the potential development of an AI-infused operating system and a dedicated AI agents application. Such a platform could potentially leverage the unique capabilities of Perplexity alongside other AI assistants, creating a richer and more intelligent user experience across Samsung’s diverse product portfolio.
