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Perplexity AI Wants To Buy TikTok and Their New Bid Involves the US Government, ByteDance

Jan 27, 2025 - techtimes.com
The United States' efforts to address TikTok's operations have intensified, with President Trump's executive order extending the ban's deadline, prompting various companies to express interest in acquiring TikTok. Among these is Perplexity AI, an AI startup that has submitted a revised bid to purchase TikTok's US operations. Their proposal involves creating a new company with TikTok US and equity investors, transforming Perplexity into a social media entity. The plan includes a significant role for the US government, with an initial public offering of $300 million and a 50% ownership stake for the government, while ByteDance retains the other half.

The sale of TikTok's US operations has attracted interest from several high-profile entities, including Oracle, Microsoft, and Elon Musk. Additionally, MrBeast, in partnership with Jesse Tinsley and Employer.com, has expressed interest in acquiring TikTok. The bidding war has seen participation from notable figures such as Larry Ellison, Kevin O'Leary, and Steven Munchin. Perplexity AI's bid stands out for its involvement of both ByteDance and the US government, positioning it as a strong contender in the ongoing negotiations.

Key takeaways:

  • Perplexity AI has submitted a revised bid to acquire TikTok US, involving a partnership with equity investors to create a new company for its operations.
  • The proposal includes significant involvement from the US government, with plans for an initial public offering and government stake in the new entity.
  • ByteDance would retain 50 percent ownership of TikTok under the new entity proposed by Perplexity AI.
  • Other potential buyers for TikTok US include Oracle, Elon Musk, MrBeast, and other notable figures and companies, sparking a competitive bidding war.
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