Perplexity AI has made significant strides in the past year, primarily through its development of Comet, a new AI browser powered by “agentic search.” Initially launched in beta for macOS on Apple Silicon devices, Comet uses built-in AI features to assist with everyday browsing tasks, such as summarizing emails, finding discounts in shopping carts, and letting people virtually try on clothes by uploading a picture of themselves.
The company has confirmed that a Windows version of Comet is already in testing, with early invites sent out. CEO Aravind Srinivas also confirmed that an Android version is also on the way.
Perplexity’s plans for Comet have not been without controversy. During a recent podcast interview, Srinivas said that Comet might collect behavioral data outside the app to improve personalization. The comment sparked privacy concerns, which forced him to later clarify that such data collection would be optional and that users would retain full control over their privacy settings.
Apple Acquiring Perplexity?
In related news, Apple is reportedly in early discussions to acquire Perplexity AI. The potential acquisition was first reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
If Apple enters the AI search space through Perplexity, it would join an increasingly competitive market that includes giants like Google, OpenAI, and Microsoft. Comet itself is expected to compete directly with new-generation browsers like Opera Neon and other AI-based browsers.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the discussions are being led by Apple’s head of mergers and acquisitions in collaboration with the company’s AI leadership. While the talks are ongoing, they remain in the early stages, and no agreement has been finalized.
A spokesperson for Perplexity AI denied knowledge of any active or planned discussions with Apple.
If Apple moves forward, the acquisition would likely be one of its largest AI-related investments. Perplexity AI’s estimated valuation stands at around $14 billion. The company is also reportedly engaged in separate negotiations with Samsung.
