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2h ago

Apple Weighs Record Acquisition in Early Talks for Perplexity AI

Discussions led by Apple’s acquisitions and AI executives may depend on a US antitrust ruling that could void its $20 billion default search pact with Google.

A man walks past an Apple logo outside an Apple store in Aix-en Provence, France, January 15, 2025. REUTERS/Manon Cruz/File photo
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Overview

  • Apple executives including mergers chief Adrian Perica and services head Eddy Cue have held early-stage internal discussions about bidding for Perplexity AI, though no formal offer is assured.
  • Perplexity AI’s latest funding round valued the startup at $14 billion, and its conversational search and voice technology could be integrated into Safari and Siri.
  • A completed deal would surpass Apple’s $3 billion acquisition of Beats to become the company’s largest-ever purchase.
  • The US government’s antitrust trial against Google could threaten Apple’s annual $20 billion payment for default search status and influence its move on Perplexity.
  • Perplexity is also close to finalizing a major partnership with Samsung, a development that could complicate any exclusive deal with Apple.