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Snap Terminates AI Partnership With Perplexity Amid Strategic Reassessment

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

May 7, 2026

Deal Dissolution And Strategic Reassessment

Snap Inc. ended its partnership with Perplexity during the first quarter of 2026, according to its earnings report. The decision cancels previously announced plans to integrate Perplexity’s conversational AI search into Snapchat’s chat interface.

The agreement, first disclosed in November 2025, included a $400 million package in cash and equity. As part of the termination, Snap revised its guidance to exclude any expected revenue contribution from the deal.

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Integration Plans And Broader Rollout Challenges

Integration of conversational AI search was intended to expand how users interact with content within Snapchat, enabling real-time responses inside chat. Testing had begun with a limited group of users, but a broader rollout had not been finalised. The termination reflects challenges in aligning product strategy and deployment timelines for AI features within large-scale consumer platforms.

Solid User Growth And Financial Momentum

Despite the cancellation, Snap reported continued growth across key metrics. Global daily active users increased 5% year-on-year to 483 million, while monthly active users rose 5% to 965 million. Growth was supported by product updates, including features such as Snap Map and augmented reality Lenses. Evan Spiegel said the company is focused on improving revenue performance and free cash flow alongside user growth.

Investment in Innovation and Workforce Restructuring

Looking ahead, Snap Inc. continues to invest in long-term product development, including intelligent eyewear and related technologies, with further details expected at the AWE event on June 16. At the same time, these investments follow a broader restructuring effort. The company reduced approximately 16% of its global workforce, a move linked in part to increased use of automation and AI tools across its operations. The combination of continued product investment and workforce adjustments reflects how the company is reallocating resources while integrating AI into its development and operating model.

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Web Summit 2026 Brings 70,000 Participants From 164 Countries To Lisbon

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 13, 2026

Around 70,000 people from 164 countries attended this year’s Web Summit in Lisbon, with China sending its largest delegation to the event so far. More than 50 representatives from the country’s artificial intelligence and robotics sectors took part, reflecting China’s growing presence in technologies reshaping manufacturing and services.

Founded in Dublin in 2009, Web Summit moved to Lisbon in 2016 and has since developed into one of Europe’s major technology conferences. The event brings together start-ups, investors and industry leaders, providing a platform for companies to present new technologies and explore business opportunities.

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This year’s gathering also highlighted China’s expanding influence in the global technology industry, a trend noted by Web Summit founder Paddy Cosgrave.

Storm Charles Interrupts Conference Programme

The summit’s schedule was disrupted on November 11, when Storm Charles forced organisers to cancel activities for the day. The programme resumed on November 12, allowing the event to conclude as planned.

Despite the interruption, this year’s Web Summit highlighted several key developments shaping the technology sector, including advances in robotics and automation, intensifying international competition and continued demand for platforms connecting businesses with investors.

For Lisbon, the conference remains an important international technology gathering, bringing together companies and decision-makers while showcasing innovations moving towards commercial application.