Samsung Electronics is nearing a deal to integrate Perplexity AI’s search technology into its Galaxy smartphones, potentially marking a significant retreat from Google’s artificial intelligence dominance on Android devices.
The South Korean tech giant is discussing plans to make Perplexity the default AI assistant on the Galaxy S26 series, expected early next year, while also considering a substantial investment in the startup. Perplexity recently secured $500 million in funding at a $14 billion valuation, though initial talks suggested higher targets.
The arrangement would see Perplexity’s app preloaded on Samsung devices and its search capabilities embedded into the company’s web browser and Bixby assistant. This represents a strategic shift for Samsung, which has already begun replacing its own Bixby with Google’s Gemini as the default voice assistant on current Galaxy S25 models.
The timing appears deliberate. Google faces antitrust scrutiny over payments described as “enormous sums” to Samsung for preinstalling Gemini, echoing past monopoly concerns. Samsung’s venture arm Samsung NEXT previously invested in Perplexity, suggesting existing ties.
For Samsung, diversifying AI partnerships reduces dependence on Google while potentially strengthening its negotiating position. However, the move risks fragmenting the Android AI experience and creating user confusion as the company juggles multiple AI providers across its ecosystem.
