Samsung is reportedly in advanced discussions with Perplexity, a rapidly growing AI search startup, to preload its app and assistant on upcoming devices. According to a report by Bloomberg, the South Korean tech giant may announce the deal later this year, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape of AI-powered mobile experiences.
Perplexity AI has gained attention for its real-time, conversational search capabilities, challenging traditional search engines with a more intuitive and context-aware user experience. Samsung is said to be exploring deep integration of Perplexity’s AI across multiple platforms, including the Samsung Internet Browser and Bixby, the company’s in-house digital assistant.
If finalized, the partnership could begin bearing fruit with the launch of the Galaxy S26, expected in the first half of 2026. Perplexity may be offered as a default AI assistant option on the flagship device, providing users with an alternative to Google’s Gemini AI. This is particularly noteworthy given reports that Google pays Samsung a substantial sum to maintain its default assistant and search position on Galaxy devices.
The potential tie-up reflects Samsung’s broader strategy to diversify its AI ecosystem and reduce reliance on Google. It also highlights the growing importance of generative AI in the mobile space. For Perplexity, the partnership offers an opportunity to rapidly scale its user base and gain mainstream adoption through Samsung’s global distribution.
Industry analysts note that the move could ignite fresh competition in the AI search domain, currently dominated by Google and Microsoft-backed OpenAI. By integrating Perplexity’s technology directly into its devices, Samsung aims to offer users a more personalized and streamlined experience, especially as generative AI becomes a key differentiator in smartphone innovation.
As Samsung prepares for future launches, including the S26 series, a potential Perplexity partnership signals the company’s ambition to reshape how users interact with search and AI on mobile devices. With AI assistants becoming central to smartphone experiences, this deal could redefine the default digital companion for millions of users worldwide.
