Perplexity AI Pursues $9 Billion Valuation in New Funding Round

The AI search startup, backed by major investors, aims to raise $500 million as it challenges industry giants like Google.

Perplexity AI is in talks to raise its valuation from $3 billion to approximately $9 billion by securing $500 million in new funding.
The company, which offers a search tool competing with Google, has seen rapid valuation growth from $1 billion in April to $3 billion in June.
Key investors include SoftBank's Vision Fund 2, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, and Nvidia Corporation.
Perplexity has faced plagiarism accusations from media outlets like The New York Times, prompting legal challenges and a revenue-sharing program with publishers.
The startup's annualized revenue has grown to $50 million, and it is exploring partnerships with brands like Nike and Marriott to disrupt Google's ad model.