Overview

• Multiple outlets report Apple has internally discussed potential bids for Perplexity and France‑based Mistral AI, though no offer is confirmed and the companies did not comment.
• Services chief Eddy Cue is portrayed as pushing for large AI deals, while software head Craig Federighi is described as preferring to build capabilities internally.
• Apple has told bankers it is continuing to focus on smaller AI purchases for now, even after Tim Cook signaled openness to larger M&A that could speed the plan.
• A pending court ruling on Apple’s default‑search arrangement with Google could increase pressure to secure an AI search option, with Perplexity viewed as a possible fallback.
• Apple is testing its own models against offerings from OpenAI, Anthropic and Google as part of a Siri overhaul, reflecting parallel paths of licensing, partnering or buying.