Perplexity AI outlines vision for TikTok acquisition amidst ban threat

In a blog post, Perplexity outlined plans to “rebuild TikTok in America,” which includes reconstructing the app’s algorithm, implementing Community Notes, and integrating short-form videos into its search engine.

While Perplexity’s bid is among several potential offers, its seriousness remains unclear. Reports indicate ByteDance favors a deal with its US investors and Oracle to appease President Trump.

Perplexity argues its unique position to acquire TikTok, stating:

“Perplexity is singularly positioned to rebuild the TikTok algorithm without creating a monopoly, combining world-class technical capabilities with Little Tech independence. Any acquisition by a consortium of investors could in effect keep ByteDance in control of the algorithm, while any acquisition by a competitor would likely create a monopoly in the short form video and information space. All of society benefits when content feeds are liberated from the manipulations of foreign governments and globalist monopolists.”

See also

The company proposes rebuilding TikTok’s “For You” feed as open-source and adding Community Notes and citation features to enhance neutrality and trust. This contrasts with TikTok’s current fact-checking, which relies on media organizations.

This marks Perplexity’s first detailed public outline of its TikTok vision. Notably, plans like open-sourcing the feed and adding Community Notes echo Elon Musk’s approach to X.

The White House faces an impending decision on TikTok’s future, as Trump’s executive order delaying a ban expires April 5th, though he has indicated a possible extension.