Samsung users are already accustomed to summoning Gemini with a quick "Hey Google," unlocking a suite of smart features. However, with the next generation, the Galaxy S26 appears poised to broaden the AI horizon, potentially introducing Perplexity as a core assistant complete with its own dedicated wake word.

Recent reports suggest that Galaxy S26 owners might soon be saying "Hey Plex"—a command mirroring the familiar Google prompt. This signals Samsung’s intent to expand the AI roster within the Galaxy ecosystem, moving beyond the current reliance on just Gemini or Bixby.

The budding partnership between Samsung and Perplexity hasn't exactly been a secret. Bixby already pulls data from Perplexity, and Samsung has offered Perplexity Pro subscriptions in select markets, even launching a dedicated app for its TVs. However, pre-installing the service on Galaxy smartphones remains the holy grail for Perplexity to reach a mass audience.

According to a teardown by Android Authority, the latest version of the Perplexity app contains code referencing the "Hey Plex" command, designed to wake the assistant even when the screen is off. While this feature could theoretically work on other Android phones, specific code snippets point to exclusive optimizations for Samsung, hinting at a much deeper integration for Galaxy devices.

Furthermore, files within the update allude to plans for pre-installing Perplexity on Galaxy hardware. Although the Galaxy S26 isn't explicitly named, as Samsung’s premier flagship for 2026, it is the most logical candidate. It wouldn't be surprising to see this partnership officially unveiled on the big stage at Galaxy Unpacked.

If these rumors hold true, the Galaxy S26 will represent more than just a hardware refresh. It could mark a significant shift in the AI landscape, empowering users to choose the assistant that best fits their needs rather than being locked into a single platform.