Perplexity's search engine is described as "part chatbot and part search engine," providing real-time information and showing the sources of its answers. The company makes money by offering a Pro version for $20 per month that allows users to choose from various large language models. CEO Aravind Srinivas believes that AI chatbots will replace traditional search methods, and he has criticized Google for its slow progress in AI-powered search.
Key takeaways:
- Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has invested in Perplexity AI, a startup that aims to challenge Google with an AI-based search engine that combines chatbot and search engine functionalities.
- Perplexity AI has grown to 10 million monthly active users and served over half a billion queries in 2023. The company raised $73.6 million from venture capitalists, companies, and angel investors, including Bezos, valuing the company at about $520 million.
- Perplexity is now finalizing a new funding deal at a valuation of around $1 billion, which would nearly double Bezos's investment in just a few months.
- Perplexity's CEO, Aravind Srinivas, believes that Google search will become outdated and that AI chatbots will become the future of online search. The company offers a Pro version for $20 per month that allows users to choose from various large language models.