If the deal goes through, it could shake up the way Samsung users search, browse, and interact with their devices — and loosen the company’s reliance on Google in the process.
The discussions are said to include plans to preload Perplexity’s app and AI assistant
on future Samsung phones, and to integrate its search tools into the Samsung Internet browser. The two companies have also explored plugging Perplexity’s tech into Bixby, Samsung’s own virtual assistant, though those details aren’t locked in yet, Bloomberg added.
The goal is to have Perplexity’s AI assistant ready to ship as a default option on the Galaxy S26, which is expected to launch in the first half of 2026. Samsung could announce the partnership later this year, though nothing is set in stone at the moment.
Beyond the product integration, Samsung is expected to become one of the biggest backers in Perplexity’s upcoming fundraising round. The startup is reportedly raising $500 million at a $14 billion valuation, Bloomberg said.
This would be a massive step for Perplexity, a young company already making waves in the AI world. Earlier this year, Motorola and Perplexity announced a partnership which gave Razr and Edge 60 users three months of Perplexity Pro at no cost.
If Samsung follows suit, it could give Perplexity a huge visibility boost.
The partnership would also signal a shift for Samsung. While it has worked closely with Google over the years — even launching features like Circle to Search and Gemini integrations on recent Galaxy models — the company appears to be moving toward a multi-partner AI strategy, much like Apple.
In fact, Apple has also reportedly explored working with Perplexity. Eddy Cue, Apple’s head of services, even said during testimony in Google’s antitrust trial that the company had “started some discussions” with Perplexity and was “impressed” with what it’s building.
Samsung and Perplexity have also reportedly talked about building AI-powered operating systems and a multi-assistant app that combines the capabilities of Perplexity with other AI tools — part of a broader vision for AI-native phones.
If it all comes together, the Samsung–Perplexity deal could mark a major moment in the AI race for mobile. For Samsung, it’s a chance to rethink its software strategy. For Perplexity, it’s a shot at going mainstream. And for users, it could mean new ways to search, chat, and navigate life — without defaulting to Google.
