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What you need to know
Startup Perplexity AI is reportedly in discussions with major smartphone manufacturers Motorola and Samsung to integrate its software as a preloaded or default assistant on their devices. It appears that an agreement has already been reached with Motorola for its AI to be included on upcoming phones as a secondary option alongside Google’s Gemini. Meanwhile, negotiations with Samsung are in their initial stages, but successful talks could lead to Perplexity’s application being offered to consumers or set as a default assistant.
According to reports, these discussions highlight a growing trend where established smartphone brands are interested in utilizing the technology of emerging AI startups for their future devices.
The information stems from a report by Bloomberg, which cites sources familiar with the situation who indicate that Perplexity AI is actively pursuing partnerships with prominent original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The company aims to compete with established AI solutions such as Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT for its position as an on-device AI assistant. Reports suggest that Perplexity AI has initiated contact with both Samsung and Motorola about the potential to be included as a default option on their smartphones.
Notably, the report mentions that Perplexity AI has already finalized a deal with Lenovo, Motorola’s parent company, for the inclusion of its software.
This arrangement is expected to result in Perplexity’s technology being “pre-loaded” on Motorola devices, serving as an alternative to the existing options like Gemini. Furthermore, customers using future Motorola models can look forward to a promotional effort encouraging them to explore Perplexity’s capabilities, particularly with a customized version developed for the Razr foldable phone.
Regarding Samsung, the discussions are still at an early phase, which may be attributed to its strong partnership with Google and its suite of AI tools. However, if the negotiations proceed smoothly, there is a possibility that Samsung could include Perplexity’s AI as a featured assistant or preload its application on devices.
Venturing into AI
In addition to these discussions, reports indicate that Samsung has previously invested in Perplexity AI in 2024. Established in 2022, the startup may see further financial backing from Samsung in 2025, according to Bloomberg. While prospects for Perplexity appear optimistic, the complexities of such negotiations often mean outcomes remain uncertain until finalized.
Samsung has been making substantial efforts to integrate AI into its Galaxy series, with initiatives like Galaxy AI intended to enhance user experience. Following the release of the Galaxy S25 in January, Google quickly expanded its AI capabilities, introducing features to improve visual search functionalities.
Galaxy smartphone users currently have access to Gemini’s features, providing them with assistance directly on their devices.
Conversely, Motorola has been exploring the integration of AI with its “Moto AI,” beta testing new tools that aim to improve features such as notification management, memory aids, and enhanced audio recording with transcription services. The company remains optimistic about its AI strategies, asserting that user feedback will play a crucial role in tailoring Moto AI to meet consumer expectations effectively.
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