Snapchat to Embed Perplexity AI Search in Early 2026
Key Points
- Snap and Perplexity AI sign a $400 million deal.
- AI search will be integrated into Snapchat’s chat interface.
- The integration is scheduled for early 2026.
- Revenue from the deal is expected to start contributing in 2026.
- CEO Evan Spiegel sees potential for additional AI partnerships.
- Snap’s AI portfolio includes MyAI, AI lenses, and Snapchat+.
- The partnership aims to boost personalization and user engagement.
Snap Inc. announced a $400 million agreement with Perplexity AI to integrate the AI search engine directly into Snapchat’s chat interface. The partnership, slated for early 2026, will let users ask questions and receive conversational answers sourced from verifiable data. Snap expects the deal to start contributing to its revenue in 2026, and CEO Evan Spiegel suggested similar collaborations could follow. The move adds to Snap’s broader AI strategy, which already includes its MyAI chatbot, AI‑powered lenses, and the Snapchat+ subscription service.
Deal Overview
Snap Inc. and Perplexity AI have entered a $400 million agreement that will bring Perplexity’s AI search engine into Snapchat’s chat feature. The integration is planned for early 2026, allowing Snapchat users to type questions and receive clear, conversational answers drawn from verified sources without leaving the app.
Financial Impact
Perplexity AI will pay Snap $400 million for the integration, and Snap expects the revenue from this deal to begin contributing to its bottom line in 2026. The announcement was made alongside Snap’s third‑quarter earnings report.
Strategic Implications
CEO Evan Spiegel highlighted the partnership as a step toward making AI‑powered discovery native to Snapchat. He indicated that the collaboration enhances personalization and positions Snap as a leading distribution channel for intelligent agents. Spiegel also hinted that Snap could explore similar partnerships with other AI companies, potentially creating a broader ecosystem of AI partners reaching Snap’s global community.
Snap’s Ongoing AI Efforts
Snap has been expanding its generative AI capabilities in recent years. The company operates MyAI, a chatbot powered by large language models from OpenAI and Google. Additionally, Snap has rolled out AI‑enhanced lenses and creation tools, which have contributed to the growth of its Snapchat+ subscription service.
Future Outlook
The Perplexity AI integration aligns with Snap’s strategy to embed advanced AI features directly into the user experience. By offering AI search within the chat interface, Snap aims to increase user engagement and create new revenue streams. The partnership also underscores Snap’s commitment to leveraging AI technologies to differentiate its platform in a competitive social media landscape.