Donald Trump's Truth Social Enters the AI Race with Perplexity-Powered Search Engine

In a bold move to challenge tech giants like Google, Donald Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, has launched an AI-powered search engine named Truth Search AI. Developed in partnership with Perplexity AI, a rising player in the artificial intelligence space, the tool is designed to offer customised, context-rich answers with transparent citations.

Truth Search AI is currently available in beta on the web version of Truth Social, with plans to roll it out on iOS and Android apps in the near future. The new search tool is built using Perplexity's Sonar API, which allows full customisation of search sources, enabling clients like Truth Social to tailor responses based on preferred media and content types.

While most tech platforms are integrating AI chatbots and smart assistants—like Elon Musk’s Grok on X or Meta’s AI on Instagram and WhatsApp—Truth Social is leveraging AI search technology to enhance user experience and compete in the evolving AI search engine landscape.

 

Initial reviews reveal that Truth Search AI pulls results from conservative-leaning sources such as Fox News and the Epoch Times. However, tests by outlets like 404Media show that the tool isn’t entirely biased. For instance, when asked about Trump-era tariffs, the AI search offered balanced insights, even highlighting economic drawbacks.

Perplexity clarified that Truth Social has full control over the source selection and content filtering through its Sonar API. Although the company didn’t disclose financial details, it emphasized that the API was developed to meet a growing demand for AI tools with selective sourcing capabilities.

This launch comes amid growing discussions on AI regulation and data ethics. While Perplexity AI has faced criticism over content sourcing and copyright concerns, the company maintains its practices are aligned with fair use and reflective of how modern AI operates.

With AI innovation accelerating and political platforms embracing AI technology, Truth Social’s new AI search engine may shape how conservative audiences access and engage with digital information.