Samsung is in late-stage discussions to invest in Perplexity AI, potentially integrating the AI start-up's search technology into its devices. The deal could see Perplexity's AI assistant becoming a default option on Samsung phones or its Android app pre-loaded. Samsung's existing partnership with Google, which provides AI features and the default search engine for its devices, adds complexity to the potential agreement.
Perplexity AI, founded in 2022, uses large language models to provide conversational search results with cited sources. The start-up has gained traction for its AI-powered search engine, which offers concise answers and real-time web access. Samsung's interest in Perplexity follows a broader trend of smartphone manufacturers seeking AI partnerships to differentiate their offerings. Perplexity is also working with Motorola and Deutsche Telekom to integrate its AI technology into their devices. A new funding round could value Perplexity at $18 billion.