Apple Explores Acquisition or Partnership with Perplexity AI

Apple is currently engaged in early discussions regarding a potential acquisition or partnership with Perplexity AI, as the company aims to enhance its artificial intelligence initiatives, especially in the realms of search and voice assistance. This move could not only provide a strategic alternative to its reliance on Google but also help expedite the evolution of a more advanced Siri.

Internal Discussions Led by Key Executives

According to Bloomberg, Adrian Perica, who leads Apple’s mergers and acquisitions, has initiated talks with senior executives, including Services SVP Eddy Cue and other influential figures responsible for Apple’s AI strategy. Although no formal offer has been made, Apple has conducted numerous meetings with Perplexity in recent months to assess potential opportunities.

Overview of Perplexity AI

Founded by Aravind Srinivas, Perplexity AI is an emerging startup that combines conversational AI with real-time web search, presenting a promising foundation for a homegrown Apple AI search engine. Apple is deliberating on two main strategies: either fully acquiring Perplexity to integrate its technology and expertise into Siri and iOS, or forming a strategic partnership that would incorporate Perplexity’s AI functions into Safari and other Apple applications.

Apple’s Ongoing Search for AI Talent

Apple’s interest in Perplexity also coincides with its continuous quest for top AI talent. The company is reportedly competing with Meta to recruit leading figures in the field, including Daniel Gross, the founder of Safe Superintelligence Inc. In the meantime, Apple has postponed the rollout of the next-generation Siri due to developmental hurdles.

Testimony and Potential Implications

Eddy Cue recently provided testimony in Google’s antitrust trial, indicating that Apple had explored the possibility of integrating Perplexity with Safari. This testimony illuminated Apple’s multibillion-dollar agreement with Google, which guarantees that Google Search remains the default option on iPhones. This contract, valued at $18 billion in 2021 alone, may be jeopardized if regulators enforce a breakup. In such a case, acquiring Perplexity could give Apple a practical alternative and enable the creation of its own AI-driven search engine.

Challenges and Competitive Landscape

Although Apple’s WWDC 2025 keynote did not prominently feature AI developments, these behind-the-scenes initiatives indicate that the company is actively pursuing ways to compete with rivals like Google, Microsoft, and Meta in the rapidly changing AI landscape.