Gemini’s New Rival? Samsung Integrates Perplexity Into Bixby 4.0
SamsungMonday, 29 December 2025 at 07:00
Bixby is the survivor of the smartphone world. For years, critics called it "the button nobody wanted," and many users traded it for Google Gemini the second they got the chance. But Samsung isn't ready to say goodbye. With the arrival of One UI 8.5, Samsung is pulling a massive plot twist: Bixby is getting a brain transplant from Perplexity AI.
Key Points:
- One UI 8.5 introduces Perplexity AI integration directly into the Bixby app.
- Bixby will handle local device tasks while Perplexity manages complex web queries.
- A new "Liquid Glass" UI card design replaces the old full-screen Bixby interface.
- Version 4.0.50.4 of Bixby is currently being tested in Europe with restricted access.
- This move signals Samsung's desire to reduce total reliance on Google's Gemini.
The Multi-Model Strategy
If you’ve used Siri lately, this might feel familiar. Much like Apple’s partnership with ChatGPT, Samsung is splitting Bixby’s duties. Your phone will still handle the "local" stuff—like turning on your flashlight or setting a 7:00 AM alarm—using its internal code. But the moment you ask something complex, like "Why is the Samsung S26 likely to use a ceramic body?" Bixby hands the baton to Perplexity.
This is a strategic middle finger to the idea that Google Gemini has to be the only game in town. By using Perplexity, Bixby can now provide real-time web searches with actual citations. Instead of a vague paragraph, you get a clean card with links to sources.
A Fresh Coat of Paint
The first leaks from the One UI 8.5 beta show a total UI overhaul. Gone is the clunky, full-screen takeover. The new Bixby appears as a sleek, translucent card at the bottom of the screen. It follows the "Liquid Glass" design language Samsung is pushing for 2026—lots of blur, soft shadows, and a look that feels more like a modern app and less like an intrusive pop-up.
Why Europe Is Getting It First
Interestingly, the specific Bixby version (4.0.50.4) carrying these features has been spotted primarily in Europe. Samsung seems to be testing the waters there first, likely due to regional AI regulations or a slower rollout of Gemini’s advanced features. For now, the APK is locked down, so don't bother trying to side-load it just yet.
Samsung is clearly trying to make Bixby "useful" again. By leaning on Perplexity’s search accuracy, they are betting that users care more about facts than a chatty AI personality. Will it be enough to make you stop long-pressing for Gemini? We’ll find out at the 2026 Unpacked event.
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