Perplexity AI secures $100 million in funding, valuation rises to $18 billion

Perplexity AI secures $100 million in funding, valuation rises to $18 billion

Perplexity AI, an AI-driven search engine company, has secured $100 million in new funding, raising its valuation to $18 billion [1]. This latest round of funding, the company’s fifth in just 18 months, reflects strong investor confidence in both Perplexity’s business prospects and the broader generative AI sector.

The funding round attracted investments from notable firms including Nvidia, SoftBank’s Vision Fund 2, New Enterprise Associates, and IVP. This latest capital injection comes on the heels of Perplexity’s recent product launch, Comet, an AI-powered web browser designed to integrate search, productivity, and automation features. Comet is currently available to Perplexity Max subscribers and selected invitees, aiming to enhance user engagement and differentiate from competitors [1].

Perplexity AI, founded in 2022, has demonstrated rapid revenue growth. Annualized revenue increased from $35 million in August 2023 to $150 million by July 2025, indicating both effective customer acquisition and monetization strategies. The company has diversified its revenue streams beyond subscriptions, including advertising and e-commerce [1].

In addition to its product developments, Perplexity AI has formed strategic partnerships to expand its market reach. The company recently announced a partnership with Bharti Airtel, offering a free year of Perplexity Pro to all of Airtel’s 360 million-plus users in India. This move is part of Perplexity’s broader global expansion strategy, which includes agreements with more than 25 telecom operators worldwide [1].

Despite reports of acquisition interest from major technology companies, Perplexity has stated plans to remain a public company. Company leaders view its independence as critical amid persistent speculation about potential buyouts and as competition in AI search intensifies [1].

Analysts expect further market activity in the AI-powered search and productivity segment, with Perplexity’s new product launches and strategic partnerships likely to drive additional user growth. Investor attention is expected to stay focused on the company, though ongoing competition with larger tech firms and future attempts at public market entry or strategic acquisitions may shape its next phase of development.

References
[1] https://mlq.ai/news/perplexity-ai-reaches-18-billion-valuation-on-new-100-million-funding-round/