Apple(US:AAPL) 智通财经网·2025-06-21 00:44Core Viewpoint - Apple is considering acquiring AI startup Perplexity AI to enhance its artificial intelligence capabilities and address the growing demand for AI talent and technology [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Discussions - Apple's executives, including Adrian Perica and Eddy Cue, have discussed the potential acquisition of Perplexity AI, although these talks are in the early stages and may not lead to a formal proposal [1]. - The acquisition could help Apple develop an AI-based search engine, particularly in light of potential impacts from the termination of its long-standing partnership with Google, which generates approximately $20 billion annually for Apple [1][2]. - Perplexity AI recently completed a funding round, achieving a valuation of $14 billion, which would make it Apple's largest acquisition if completed [2]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Apple and Meta are engaged in a broader talent competition, with Meta recently attempting to recruit Daniel Gross, a notable figure in AI [3]. - Meta's acquisition of a 49% stake in Scale AI for $14.3 billion is part of its strategy to build a "superintelligent" AI team, highlighting the competitive dynamics in the AI sector [2][3]. Group 3: AI Development Strategy - Apple's interest in Perplexity aligns with its efforts to catch up in the generative AI space, as it has been slow to launch its AI platform, Apple Intelligence, and has faced delays in redesigning its Siri project [4]. - Recent AI improvements announced at Apple's developer conference were limited, indicating a need for more substantial advancements in AI capabilities [4]. Group 4: Alternative Collaboration - Apple is also exploring a partnership with Perplexity, which could involve integrating Perplexity's AI search engine into Apple's Safari browser and Siri, rather than pursuing a full acquisition [5][6]. - Ongoing meetings between Apple and Perplexity suggest a serious consideration of a close collaboration, although potential obstacles include Perplexity's dealings with Samsung, a major competitor in the smartphone market [6].