Apple is in early discussions to acquire Perplexity AI, a fast-growing startup known for its real-time, conversational AI-powered search engine. If finalized, the deal could be worth around $14 billion, making it the biggest acquisition in Apple’s history—surpassing its 2014 purchase of Beats Electronics for $3 billion.
A Strategic Move into Generative AI
This potential acquisition marks a major shift in Apple’s approach to artificial intelligence. While competitors like Microsoft and Google have already embedded generative AI deeply into their products, Apple has so far taken a slower path. Buying Perplexity AI could allow Apple to strengthen its AI presence and challenge tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude.
What Makes Perplexity AI Unique
Founded in 2022 by former engineers from OpenAI, Meta, and Quora, Perplexity AI is known for delivering clear, citation-backed answers in a chat interface. Often described as a “ChatGPT with sources,” the platform avoids vague or incorrect responses by pulling real-time information and including references. The company has attracted big-name investors such as Jeff Bezos, Nvidia, and NEA, and recently raised $63 million at a $1 billion valuation. With growing demand in the AI space, its value has reportedly surged to $14 billion.
Potential Impact on Apple Products
If Apple acquires Perplexity AI, it could lead to major upgrades across the Apple ecosystem. The AI capabilities might be integrated into Siri, Apple Search, and Spotlight, helping Apple offer faster, smarter, and more context-aware services on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. The deal could also support Apple’s privacy-first design by enabling more on-device AI processing.
Meetings Already Underway
According to reports, top Apple executives—including Adrian Perica, Apple’s head of M&A, and Eddy Cue, head of services—have already met with Perplexity AI leadership to explore the potential deal. This signals Apple’s serious intent to move ahead, although the talks remain in the early stages.
Breaking from Apple’s Usual Acquisition Style
Apple is known for buying smaller companies and building technology in-house. Acquiring a high-profile startup like Perplexity would be a significant change in strategy. Just as Beats helped launch Apple Music, Perplexity could become the foundation for Apple’s next big AI platform.
Shifting the AI Landscape
If the deal goes through, it may reshape the competitive landscape in generative AI. Apple would no longer be on the sidelines but an active contender in AI innovation. The company could catch up—and potentially lead—in a space currently dominated by rivals.Aiming for the Future
While there is no confirmed offer yet, this potential acquisition highlights Apple’s ambition to be a key player in the next wave of tech transformation. As AI becomes the next major platform shift, Apple’s move to secure Perplexity AI could define the future of Siri, search, and smart computing across its devices.
