Apple Explores Acquisition of AI Startup Perplexity to Boost Safari Capabilities

Apple Inc. is in early-stage discussions about a potential acquisition of AI startup Perplexity, aiming to integrate its advanced search tools into the Safari browser. Adrian Perica, Apple's mergers and acquisitions lead, has initiated talks with key executives, including services chief Eddy Cue, though Perplexity's management remains uninvolved at this stage.

A deal near Perplexity's recent $14 billion valuation WOULD mark Apple's largest acquisition ever, eclipsing its $3 billion Beats Electronics purchase in 2014. The move aligns with Apple's broader push into AI, following Meta Platforms' failed attempt to acquire Perplexity earlier. Meta instead secured a 49% stake in Scale AI for $14.3 billion to advance its 'superintelligence' ambitions.

Competition for AI talent intensifies as both Apple and Meta vie for industry leaders like Daniel Gross, co-founder of Safe Superintelligence Inc. The potential Perplexity acquisition underscores the tech sector's escalating bets on AI-driven search and productivity enhancements.