🍏 Apple AI Play: From Laggard to Leader?

NewBits Media
Aug 10
2 min read

Apple AI Acceleration via Acquisition

Apple (AAPL) has long trailed in the AI race, lagging behind Android competitors. But a recent hint from CEO Tim Cook suggests the company may flip the script — and quickly.

🗣 The Hint from Q3 Earnings

On Apple’s fiscal Q3 2025 call (ended June 28), Cook said the company is “very open to M&A that accelerates our roadmap” — indicating there’s no size limit for potential acquisitions. Apple has made around seven smaller AI-related acquisitions this year but stated none were significant in dollar terms.

📋 Analyst-Speculated Possible Targets

Industry analysts and media outlets have floated several potential AI acquisition targets for Apple — none of which have been confirmed by the company:

💬 OpenAI → Valued at ~$300B (Microsoft partnership makes this highly unlikely)

💬 Anthropic → ~$170B (closely linked to Amazon)

💬 Perplexity → ~$14–18B (no major tech parent, AI search/chat hybrid; frequently cited in speculation)

📈 Why a Mid-Tier AI Acquisition Makes Sense

Lower valuation compared to top AI firms like OpenAI or Anthropic

No entrenched rival partnerships

Potential for deep integration into iOS, Safari, and Apple hardware

⏳ Timing & Risk

Apple AI features aren’t yet a primary selling point for most consumers, but that’s changing fast. When the “which AI model does your phone run?” question matters to buyers, Apple will need a strong answer.

Bottom line: If Apple acts on the type of acquisition analysts are speculating about, it could jump from AI laggard to serious contender overnight. Without a bold move, it risks being on the outside looking in within just a few years.

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