Samsung's Bixby assistant is testing Perplexity AI integration in One UI 8.5 beta, according to screenshots shared by X user @achultra. The upgrade transforms Bixby from basic device controls to a research-capable conversational assistant.
The integration appears in Bixby version 4.0.50.4 on One UI 8.5 beta deployed on Galaxy S25 devices. Perplexity's icon now displays within Bixby's interface, confirming the partnership that Samsung announced earlier this year for connected televisions.
Samsung confirmed earlier this year it would offer AI features beyond Google Gemini, according to reports. The company maintains its Google partnership while expanding its AI portfolio through the Perplexity deal.
Perplexity brings web browsing and multi-model response capabilities to Bixby. Screenshots show Bixby answering complex weather queries in French with detailed forecasts and clothing recommendations, a significant upgrade from its previous limited responses.
The stable release is reportedly expected with Galaxy S26's launch in the first half of 2026, according to sources familiar with Samsung's plans. Samsung has six months to refine the integration before the flagship smartphone series debuts.
Bixby's Perplexity integration follows Apple's ChatGPT-Siri partnership pattern. Both companies are diversifying their AI assistant capabilities beyond primary partnerships with major AI providers.
Samsung already offers free Perplexity Pro access to Galaxy users and uses Perplexity on smart appliances. The smartphone integration creates a unified AI experience across Samsung's device ecosystem.
The upgrade could position Bixby as a Google Gemini alternative for power button integration. Samsung may offer users choice between Bixby and Gemini for quick-access assistant functions.
Bixby's architecture shift moves it from pre-programmed commands to reasoning-based responses. The assistant will handle complex queries while maintaining system-level control capabilities.
Samsung's strategic move comes as AI assistants become smartphone selling points. The company aims to compete in the increasingly crowded AI assistant market dominated by Google, Apple, and Amazon.
The feature remains in limited beta testing, not working on all devices running One UI 8.5 beta. Samsung continues development ahead of the Galaxy S26 series launch expected in early 2026.
