TLDR
- Apple ($AAPL) stock closed at $201.00, up 2.25%, amid talks of a possible Perplexity AI acquisition.
- The potential purchase could reshape Apple’s AI and search strategy, reducing reliance on Google.
- A record-breaking data breach exposed 16 billion login credentials, impacting Apple and other tech giants.
- Apple may face risks from phishing, identity theft, and security lapses following the breach.
- AAPL stock has declined 19.54% YTD but maintains a strong five-year return of 136.50%.
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) shares closed at $201.00 on June 20, 2025, marking a 2.25% increase amid reports of a possible acquisition of AI startup Perplexity and concerns about a record-setting global data breach.
These developments signal both opportunity and risk for the tech giant as it navigates the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence landscape and cybersecurity challenges.
Possible Acquisition of Perplexity AI
Apple is reportedly considering acquiring AI startup Perplexity, according to Bloomberg News. The discussions are at an early stage and may not result in a formal bid. The potential deal would align with Apple’s strategy to enhance AI-driven features in its devices and services.
Exclusive: Apple executives have held internal discussions about potentially bidding for artificial intelligence startup Perplexity AI, seeking to address the need for more AI talent and technology https://t.co/CdtqGH8Hzd
— Bloomberg (@business) June 20, 2025
Perplexity, recently valued at $14 billion, has been attracting attention from tech giants. Meta Platforms also showed interest earlier this year but failed to reach an agreement. If Apple proceeds with the acquisition, it could integrate Perplexity’s AI-driven search technology into Safari, reducing reliance on Alphabet’s Google.
This move would align with regulatory pressures on Google’s search dominance, as the U.S. Department of Justice proposes breaking up its market control. Apple’s control over search could also improve user privacy and ecosystem integration, key selling points for its loyal customer base.
Global Data Breach Sparks Security Concerns
In a parallel development, Apple has been implicated in a massive data breach that has exposed 16 billion login credentials worldwide. The breach, one of the largest on record, affects Apple, Google, Facebook, and other major platforms.
The compromised data includes usernames, passwords, and URLs gathered from over 30 databases, putting billions of online accounts at risk. Infostealers, malicious software designed to harvest sensitive data, are believed to have played a role in the breach.
Users are urged to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) immediately and check their exposure using tools like Have I Been Pwned. The breach raises concerns over identity theft, phishing, and unauthorized access across digital platforms.
Impact on Apple’s AI and Privacy Strategy
If Apple acquires Perplexity, it could further its ambition to integrate AI-driven search capabilities directly into its devices. This strategy would dovetail with Apple’s strong privacy focus, potentially shielding users from the risks posed by breaches like the recent one.
The breach also highlights the importance of Apple’s continued investment in cybersecurity measures, both to protect its users and maintain its brand reputation for security.
