Perplexity AI’s Ambitious Move: Potential Merger with TikTok US in the Works, Sources Reveal!

Perplexity AI, a US search engine startup, made a bid to merge with TikTok US, according to a source familiar with the situation.

TikTok is facing a possible ban in the US starting Sunday unless it separates from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. However, President-elect Donald Trump hinted that TikTok might get a 90-day extension.

The proposed merger would create a new company by combining Perplexity with TikTok US and New Capital Partners. This plan allows most investors from ByteDance to keep their shares and would also enhance video content on Perplexity.

Although TikTok has not commented yet, Perplexity believes its merger approach may be seen more favorably than a sale.

Perplexity AI specializes in search tools that quickly provide answers along with sources. Their technology uses advanced language models, including those from OpenAI and Meta Platforms.

TikTok, popular with nearly half of Americans, has significantly influenced online culture. It announced that it may go offline in the US unless the Biden administration reassures major companies like Apple and Google that they won’t face penalties if a ban occurs.