What you need to know
- Startup company Perplexity AI is reportedly in discussions with Motorola and Samsung to have its software preloaded or offered as a default assistant option.
- A potential deal has been reached with Motorola to have its AI pre-installed on devices alongside Gemini.
- Talks with Samsung are still in early stages, but if successful, the brand may introduce Perplexity’s app to consumers or make it a default option.
- Both Samsung and Motorola have experience with custom on-device AI, with Galaxy AI and Moto AI, respectively.
Reports suggest that popular smartphone brands are considering incorporating an AI startup company’s software into their future devices.
According to Bloomberg, Perplexity AI is pursuing partnerships with well-known OEMs to compete with the likes of Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT as an on-device AI assistant. Sources reveal that Perplexity AI has approached Samsung and Motorola regarding the possibility of integration as a default option.
Interestingly, reports indicate that Perplexity AI has already secured a deal with Motorola’s parent company, Lenovo, for assistant integration.
This agreement will see Perplexity’s software preloaded on Motorola’s devices as an alternative to Gemini. Motorola will actively promote Perplexity to its customers, with a tailored version available for its Razr foldable phone.
Sources indicate that negotiations with Samsung are still in preliminary stages. This may be due to Samsung’s existing partnership with Google and its array of AI features. However, if discussions progress smoothly, Samsung could feature Perplexity’s AI as an assistant option or pre-install the app for users.
Venturing into AI
Additionally, Samsung is said to be in discussions with Perplexity after making an investment in the startup in 2024. Perplexity AI was established in 2022, and Samsung is considering further investment in the company in 2025. This indicates a potentially positive outcome for Perplexity, although negotiations can be complex and outcomes uncertain.
Samsung has been pursuing an “AI Phone” concept through its Galaxy series, introducing Galaxy AI and other features to users. With the launch of the Galaxy S25 in January, Google expanded AI capabilities within Circle to enhance visual search queries.
Galaxy users have access to Gemini for on-device assistance whenever needed.
On the other hand, Motorola introduced its “Moto AI” features to beta testers towards the end of last year. Initially available on select phones, Moto AI offered tools for notification management, recall functions, and enhanced recording with transcription capabilities. The company remains dedicated to improving its software based on consumer feedback to meet user expectations.