Motorola signs on to feature Perplexity AI; Samsung may follow, challenging Google Gemini's default role in Android smartphones.
The Android assistant wars are heating up, and a new challenger is stepping into the ring.
Perplexity, a fast-growing AI startup, is reportedly in advanced talks to become the default voice assistant on upcoming Motorola smartphones—and Samsung might not be far behind. If the deal moves forward, it could signal a significant shakeup in the AI-powered mobile experience, one that edges Google’s Gemini out of the spotlight.
Motorola has already inked a partnership with Perplexity, according to a Bloomberg report, with plans to showcase the new assistant integration during an event on April 24. Sources familiar with the matter say the assistant will feature prominently in the next-generation Razr foldable phones, complete with a custom interface and marketing blitz.
Currently, Google’s Gemini is the default assistant on devices running Android 15. However, if these discussions materialize into finalized deals, users could soon find Perplexity — a fast-rising AI-powered search and assistant platform.
Samsung, meanwhile, is still in exploratory talks. But the tech giant’s venture arm, Samsung Next, is already a backer of Perplexity, which means deeper collaboration may just be a matter of time.
Perplexity’s AI is designed to feel more like a conversation than a search engine. It pulls from multiple large language models—OpenAI, Anthropic, Google’s own tech—and delivers real-time answers in a natural, human-like tone.
Why Ditch Gimini?
Why the sudden move away from Gemini? It's not necessarily a snub—but rather a sign that phone makers want choice and flexibility. As AI rapidly evolves, OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are looking for assistants that can be deeply integrated and offer a differentiated experience.
The deal also comes at a time when AI-powered experiences are becoming key differentiators in the smartphone market. Motorola’s early adoption of Perplexity could give it an edge, particularly with its innovative foldable lineup.
Motorola’s strategy here is clear: leverage Perplexity to bring something new to users beyond the same-old baked-in Android tools. For Samsung, it’s a bit more delicate. The company still has strong ties to Google, but a backup—or parallel—assistant may help it hedge bets in a fast-changing AI landscape.
And for Perplexity? It’s a huge opportunity. If these partnerships go through, the startup won’t just be a web-based curiosity anymore—it’ll be in the hands (and pockets) of millions.
