When it comes to AI assistants on smartphones, the matter usually revolves around Google, OpenAI, or the company’s in-house products, but Samsung may go a completely different route next year.
Samsung Electronics is reportedly close to finalizing a partnership with Perplexity AI that would see the startup’s AI-powered search tools preloaded on future Samsung devices, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter.
Galaxy S26 Lineup to Feature AI Integration
The proposed agreement includes plans to make Perplexity’s search assistant a default option on the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, expected in early 2026. The integration would allow Samsung to embed Perplexity’s features not only in its standalone app but also within its native browser and possibly its Bixby virtual assistant.
While final terms are still under negotiation, the collaboration could reshape how Samsung delivers search and AI capabilities across its product ecosystem.
$500 Million Investment in Perplexity AI
In addition to the product integration, Samsung is also expected to participate in a $500 million funding round for Perplexity, which seeks a valuation of $14 billion. This would make Samsung one of the largest backers in the round and deepen the partnership between the two companies.
For Perplexity, the Samsung partnership represents its most significant mobile deal to date, following a similar collaboration with Motorola. The company is also reportedly in discussions with Apple about potential integration with Siri, though it remains unclear how Samsung’s deal might affect those negotiations.
By aligning with Perplexity, Samsung follows a path similar to Apple’s—diversifying AI partners beyond traditional tech giants like Alphabet. The impact of this shift will likely influence future competition in mobile AI services.
