Apple Considers Mega Deal with Perplexity AI: A Step Towards AI Search Engines
amsterdam, zaterdag, 21 juni 2025.
Apple is reportedly interested in a potential acquisition of the AI startup Perplexity AI, according to Bloomberg. This move would help the tech giant develop AI-based search engines and serve as a strategic move in the competitive market of artificial intelligence. The talks are still in their early stages, but such a deal could be the largest in Apple’s history, potentially valued at $14 billion. This comes as Apple’s lucrative deal with Google, which generates about $20 billion annually, is under threat from US regulators.
Strategic Move in the AI Market
Apple’s potential acquisition of Perplexity AI would be a strategic move in the rapidly growing market of artificial intelligence. The AI startup, currently valued at $14 billion, could integrate into Apple products like Safari and Siri, significantly enhancing the tech giant’s AI offerings [1][2][3]. This step comes as Apple’s lucrative deal with Google, which generates approximately $20 billion annually, is threatened by US regulators [1][2].
Early Stage of Talks
The discussions between Apple and Perplexity are still in their early stages and may not lead to a bid. Adrian Perica, head of mergers and acquisitions at Apple, and Eddy Cue, chief of services, have discussed the potential acquisition with other top executives [1][2][3]. Perplexity itself has stated that they have no knowledge of any current or future M&A talks involving them [1][2].
Impact on the Search Market
Acquiring Perplexity would help Apple develop an AI-based search engine, a significant step in mitigating the potential loss of its deal with Google. Google is currently the default browser on Apple devices, but this agreement is now threatened by antitrust investigations in the United States [1][2][3].
Growth and Value of Perplexity
Perplexity AI has seen substantial growth, with 780 million search queries in May 2025, a 20% increase from the previous month [3]. The company is currently raising a $500 million funding round, which would value it at $14 billion [3]. Perplexity also has a growing partnership with Samsung, including offering Perplexity Pro for free to Samsung users [3].
Ethical Considerations and Antitrust Scrutiny
While acquiring Perplexity would be the largest deal in Apple’s history, it is likely to be approved by antitrust authorities. Apple has a minimal presence in the search market, and Perplexity is small compared to major players in the industry [3]. However, ethical considerations must be addressed, such as user privacy and the potential dominance of Apple in the AI market [alert! ‘ethical considerations are complex and require further study’].