Recent reports indicate that Apple has engaged in internal discussions regarding the potential acquisition of AI startups Mistral and Perplexity. This move signals a potential shift in Apple's AI strategy as it faces increasing pressure to catch up with competitors like Google and Samsung in integrating AI features into their devices.

Apple has historically been cautious in its approach to mergers and acquisitions, often preferring to develop new technologies internally. However, CEO Tim Cook recently indicated a willingness to consider larger AI-related acquisitions to accelerate the company's AI development roadmap. This change in strategy reflects the growing urgency for Apple to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Perplexity, backed by Nvidia and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, is recognized as a prominent AI firm without the backing of a major tech company. Earlier this year, Bloomberg News reported that Apple executives had already discussed the possibility of bidding for Perplexity. Integrating Perplexity's generative AI technology into Apple products could significantly enhance Siri and Spotlight, providing improved natural language understanding and more accurate contextual search capabilities. This would enable Apple to compete more effectively with Google and Microsoft, both of which are aggressively incorporating advanced AI into their platforms.

Mistral, a French AI startup specializing in open-weight AI models and backed by Nvidia, was valued at over $6 billion after its Series B funding round last year. The Financial Times reported that Mistral was in talks to raise an additional $1 billion at a $10 billion valuation.

While these discussions suggest Apple's serious interest in strengthening its AI capabilities, no deal has been finalized. An acquisition of either company would represent a significant investment in artificial intelligence for Apple.

Neither Apple, Mistral, nor Perplexity have issued official statements regarding these reports.