Perplexity AI Soars to $18 Billion with Nvidia, SoftBank Backing – What’s Next?

Introduction

Perplexity AI has recently positioned itself as a significant player in the AI industry, following its successful achievement of a substantial funding round and an extraordinary evaluation boost. The company managed to secure $100 million in funding, pushing its valuation to an impressive $18 billion. This financial milestone has been backed by prominent industry leaders like Nvidia and SoftBank, reflecting their confidence in Perplexity AI's visionary business approach and innovative product offerings. More details about this development can be found in the article detailing their financial growth trajectory .

In recent years, Perplexity AI has leveraged strategic partnerships to expand its global footprint significantly. A notable partnership with Bharti Airtel allows the company to extend the reach of its Perplexity Pro services to an expansive 360 million user base in India, marking its first direct foray into the telecommunications sector within the country. This partnership not only increases the accessibility of Perplexity AI's advanced tools but also showcases its commitment to global expansion. Further insights into their strategic maneuvers and partnership details are available .

The launch of Comet, an AI-powered browser, further emphasizes Perplexity AI's commitment to enhancing user experiences. Designed for Perplexity Max subscribers, Comet offers a Chromium-based browsing environment enriched with features like task automation and integrated search capabilities. This launch signifies a bold move to compete directly with entrenched browsers and solidifies Perplexity's position as a disruptive force in the market. For more on the innovative aspects of Comet, check the detailed article .

CEO Aravind Srinivas continues to drive Perplexity AI's ambitious goals with a keen focus on further expansion and possibly taking the company public in the future. His vision positions Perplexity AI not just as a service provider but as a comprehensive AI-driven knowledge platform. This strategic direction aims to integrate AI seamlessly into daily life, work, and education, broadening the horizon for technology use and fostering a deeper connection between AI and society. More about the future trajectory of Perplexity AI and its potential public offering can be explored here .

Perplexity AI's Funding Round and Valuation Increase

Perplexity AI has recently garnered significant attention in the tech industry with its latest funding round, marking a pivotal milestone in the company's trajectory. With the backing of prominent investors such as Nvidia and SoftBank, Perplexity AI secured a substantial $100 million in funding, which propelled its valuation to an impressive $18 billion. This remarkable leap in valuation signifies a strong vote of confidence from investors regarding Perplexity AI's potential to revolutionize the AI-powered search landscape. The company's annualized revenue growth, which skyrocketed from $35 million to $150 million in a span of just two years, further highlights its robust market presence and potential for continued expansion. For more details, visit this source.

The strategic launch of Comet, an innovative AI-powered browser, underscores Perplexity AI's commitment to enhancing user experiences in the digital world. Comet, a Chromium-based browser, offers advanced features like task automation and multi-tab workflows, setting a new benchmark in AI-assisted web browsing. This cutting-edge tool is currently available to Perplexity Max subscribers and those holding special invitations, allowing a select group of users to experience the future of web interaction. The development and launch of Comet signify Perplexity AI's ambition to compete with industry giants by offering unique, user-centered solutions. Explore more about Comet and its features by visiting this link.

In a strategic move to tap into the burgeoning Indian market, Perplexity AI has partnered with Bharti Airtel to offer its advanced AI capabilities to a massive audience. This landmark partnership will provide over 360 million Airtel subscribers in India with access to Perplexity Pro, enhancing the accessibility and reach of AI-driven technologies in the region. This collaboration not only positions Perplexity AI as a formidable player in the AI space but also marks its first direct telecom partnership in India, illustrating its strategic focus on expanding its global footprint. Learn more about this partnership here: read more.

Looking ahead, Perplexity AI has ambitious plans under the leadership of CEO Aravind Srinivas, who envisions the company as a unified, AI-driven knowledge platform that will cater to various facets of life, including work, education, and personal use. The latest funding round not only strengthens Perplexity AI's financial position but also sets the stage for a potential initial public offering (IPO), as the company aims to leverage its burgeoning status to further scale operations and enhance its AI offerings. By maintaining a focus on innovation and strategic growth, Perplexity AI is poised to carve a significant niche in the global AI landscape, as discussed in this source.

Launch of Comet: AI-powered Browser

The launch of Comet marks a pivotal moment in Perplexity AI's strategic evolution, accentuating its focus on delivering cutting-edge AI solutions to its users. With this new AI-powered browser, Perplexity AI is setting a new benchmark in web exploration. By integrating artificial intelligence directly into the browser's framework, Comet aims to revolutionize how users interact with the internet. This evolution is reflected in features that blend task automation and efficient multi-tab management, allowing users to execute complex workflows with enhanced efficiency and precision. The integration of a sophisticated assistant sidebar further underscores Comet's potential to reshape traditional browsing patterns by facilitating seamless access to information and improved productivity.

Perplexity AI's exclusive launch of Comet for Perplexity Max subscribers indicates a strategic approach to reward its premium users with state-of-the-art functionalities. While the browser is currently limited to high-tier subscribers, the potential for broader accessibility is high, particularly as Perplexity AI continues to expand its user base globally. The strategic alignment with Bharti Airtel to extend Perplexity Pro to over 360 million users in India exemplifies its commitment to reach a diverse audience and democratize AI-powered tools. This partnership not only showcases Perplexity's ambition to scale but also highlights its role in ensuring AI inclusivity across different digital landscapes.

The financial backing by tech giants such as Nvidia and SoftBank is instrumental in Perplexity AI's trajectory, as demonstrated by the substantial $100 million funding round that bolstered their valuation to $18 billion. This investment is not just a testament to the firm's robust business model, but also an endorsement of Comet’s potential to disrupt the web browsing market elite. As investor confidence grows, so does the expectation for Comet to deliver an unparalleled browsing experience that challenges traditional paradigms while aligning with future technological trends. This funding round fuels ongoing development efforts and ensures Comet remains at the forefront of AI-driven digital innovation. Learn more about Perplexity AI's funding and product launches.

Partnership with Bharti Airtel

Perplexity AI's recent collaboration with Bharti Airtel marks a significant step in expanding its reach and influence in the rapidly growing Indian technology market. By leveraging Bharti Airtel's substantial user base of over 360 million individuals, Perplexity AI aims to make its innovative AI-driven solutions more accessible to a diverse array of consumers across India. This partnership is particularly notable as it represents Perplexity AI's first direct engagement with a telecom giant in the region, highlighting a strategic move to strengthen its foothold in a market known for its technological adoption and advancement. Moreover, this collaboration aligns with Perplexity's broader goal of democratizing access to AI technology, ensuring that cutting-edge tools are available to a wide audience, including those in emerging markets.

For Bharti Airtel, this partnership with Perplexity AI is a pivotal endeavor that enhances its services by embedding advanced AI capabilities directly into the consumer experience. By offering Perplexity Pro to millions of its users, Airtel not only boosts its value proposition but also gains a competitive edge over other telecom providers in India. The integration of Perplexity's technology is expected to improve network performance and user engagement by incorporating sophisticated AI functionalities that promote efficient data management and personalized content delivery. This partnership is also seen as a timely response to the escalating demand for AI-driven solutions, positioning Airtel as a frontrunner in the integration of digital innovations within telecommunications.

The partnership signifies a milestone in the global expansion strategy of Perplexity AI, illustrating its capacity to form alliances that align with its vision of embedding AI ubiquitously in daily digital interactions. As this partnership rolls out, it is poised to open new avenues for service delivery and consumer engagement, fundamentally transforming how users in India access and utilize AI technologies. Additionally, this collaboration is anticipated to raise brand visibility for Perplexity AI across the subcontinent, fostering greater recognition of its offerings. By integrating AI seamlessly into the telecom infrastructure, Perplexity AI and Bharti Airtel are set to redefine user interaction with technology, potentially influencing consumer expectations and spurring further innovations within the industry.

Future Plans and Expansion Goals

Perplexity AI's future plans are as ambitious as their recent achievements. With a massive injection of $100 million in funding, the company now stands at a valuation of $18 billion, a testament to the confidence investors like Nvidia and SoftBank have in their vision. Looking forward, CEO Aravind Srinivas has outlined a roadmap that involves not only increasing their market footprint but also considering a public listing. Such an IPO could potentially provide them with even more resources to expand and innovate. Their strategy appears focused on integrating their technology even further into daily life, making AI-driven solutions accessible and indispensable to their users.

One of the key components of Perplexity AI's expansion strategy is the newly launched Comet browser, an AI-powered tool designed specifically for enhancing online user experiences. The browser, which is available to Perplexity Max subscribers, comes with features that leverage AI to automate tasks and improve efficiency across browsing activities. This move seems like a direct challenge to current giants in the browser market, like Google, as Perplexity AI infuses AI capabilities into conventional web browsing. With this offering, the company is potentially setting a new standard on how integrated and supportive a browser can be in daily digital interactions.

The partnership with Bharti Airtel marks a significant leap in Perplexity AI's global expansion. This collaboration opens the door to over 360 million Airtel customers in India, a massive user base that can now access Perplexity Pro. This strategic move not only amplifies Perplexity's presence in the Indian market but also aligns with their objective to democratize access to advanced AI tools. Such partnerships are crucial as they seek to solidify their position in emerging markets and tap into new user segments. The move reflects a commitment to scaling their innovations rapidly and effectively across different geographies.

As part of their future plans, Perplexity AI is also considering exploring new areas of technology and service provision beyond what they currently offer. With substantial financial backing, there are numerous opportunities to delve into developing innovative solutions that could further enhance their competitive edge. CEO Aravind Srinivas has indicated a keen interest in not only expanding their current product suite but also pioneering new technologies that could redefine how users interact with digital platforms. These efforts could potentially revolutionize the AI-driven search market and solidify Perplexity as a leader in the tech industry.

Comparison with Other AI Market Events

Perplexity AI's recent $100 million funding round marks a significant leap in its journey, boosting its valuation to an impressive $18 billion and positioning it as a formidable player in the AI market. This achievement is especially noteworthy when compared to other major AI market events. For instance, OpenAI's massive funding round of $6.6 billion, which valued the company at $157 billion, underscores the scale of investor interest in AI technologies. While OpenAI's funding dwarfs that of Perplexity AI, the latter's strategic partnerships, such as with Bharti Airtel to penetrate the Indian market, allow it to carve out its unique niche in the rapidly evolving landscape. [Read more](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

Anthropic's Series E funding, raising $3.5 billion at a post-money valuation of $61.5 billion, provides an insightful parallel to Perplexity AI's growth trajectory. Both companies have successfully leveraged investor confidence to expand their reach and capabilities significantly, albeit with differing strategic focus areas. While Anthropic has centered its efforts more broadly on advancing AI safety and alignment, Perplexity AI is honing in on transforming search technologies and user connectivity through initiatives like the Comet browser. This differentiation highlights the diverse approaches within the AI sector, each with its distinct potential to redefine technology narratives. [Explore more](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

Mistral AI's funding achievement, securing $640 million at a $6 billion valuation, further illustrates the varied scales and ambitions within the AI community. In comparison, Perplexity AI's focus on user-centric applications and significant partnerships positions it to challenge even the most established players. The launch of Mistral OCR mirrors Perplexity AI's Comet browser in showcasing innovation designed to enhance user interaction with technology. These events collectively indicate a broadening horizon for AI market expansion and diversification of offerings. [Learn more](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

Google's enhancements in AI Mode, specifically in search capabilities, stand as a testament to the competitive spirit ignited by emerging companies like Perplexity AI. As Google incorporates voice search and interactive chart functionalities, the parallels with Perplexity's endeavors to innovate within the search landscape become evident. Such progress not only reflects the dynamic and competitive nature of the AI industry but also offers insights into the adaptive strategies leading tech companies must employ to maintain relevance and leadership. The ongoing evolution of AI-driven solutions underscores both the challenges and opportunities present in this vibrant market environment. [Discover](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

Expert Opinions and Analysis

The recent funding round for Perplexity AI, which saw the company secure $100 million, is a testament to the confidence investors have in its growth trajectory and innovative capabilities. This substantial investment, led by giants such as Nvidia and SoftBank, propels Perplexity AI's valuation to an impressive $18 billion. Such backing from industry leaders highlights the anticipated disruptive potential of Perplexity AI in the AI search market, a space traditionally dominated by established tech behemoths. The company's financial milestones—marked by rapid revenue growth from $35 million in August 2023 to $150 million by July 2025—signal strong market confidence and a promising path towards profitability.

Expert analyses often focus on the strategic initiatives that accompany Perplexity AI's rise, particularly the launch of their Comet AI-powered browser. This innovation is not just a tool for users but a strategic positioning against dominant players like Google. Comet integrates AI functionalities to enhance the browsing experience, offering features like task automation and multi-tab workflows. The launch signifies Perplexity AI's commitment to revolutionizing how users interact with digital information, and it positions the company as a formidable challenger in the AI browser space. Analysts view these advancements as crucial moves to consolidate Perplexity's position in a highly competitive market.

Beyond product innovations, partnerships like the one with Bharti Airtel play a pivotal role in Perplexity AI's strategy to expand its footprint. The collaboration provides 360 million Airtel subscribers in India access to Perplexity Pro, showcasing a significant leap in accessibility for AI technologies on a massive scale. This partnership not only enhances Perplexity AI's brand visibility but also taps into one of the world's largest digital markets, reflecting a strategic move to leverage local telecom infrastructure for broader market penetration. Industry observers note that such alliances could redefine how AI-powered solutions are distributed in emerging markets, enabling substantial user adoption growth.

The comprehensive strategy adopted by Perplexity AI not only positions it for success but also invites scrutiny and speculation about its future moves. CEO Aravind Srinivas's vision includes continued expansion and the potential for a public listing, reflective of a broader trend where AI entities emerge as influential players in public markets. This approach underscores Perplexity's ambition to not only participate in but shape the future of AI-driven search technology. The strategic foresight displayed by Perplexity's management in aligning technological innovation with market needs is seen as a forward-looking blueprint for emerging AI companies aspiring to make a global impact.

Public Reactions to Perplexity AI's Developments

Public reactions to Perplexity AI's recent developments have overwhelmingly leaned towards excitement and anticipation. The announcement of their impressive $100 million funding round, which catapulted the company's valuation to a staggering $18 billion, has been hailed as a testament to Perplexity's potential to disrupt the AI landscape. With support from heavyweight investors such as Nvidia and SoftBank, the company is lauded for its visionary growth trajectory and innovative product offerings, including the newly launched Comet browser .

The Comet browser, specifically geared towards Perplexity Max subscribers, has been praised for its ability to revolutionize the browsing experience by integrating AI-powered search and enhanced task automation. This progressive feature has sparked a positive buzz among tech enthusiasts and users alike, who see it as a key differentiator from existing solutions offered by giants like Google .

Additionally, Perplexity's strategic partnership with Bharti Airtel to deliver Perplexity Pro to 360 million users in India has also been well-received, casting a favorable light on the company’s expansion strategies. This collaboration not only showcases an essential milestone in Perplexity's penetration into burgeoning markets but also highlights their commitment to making AI technology more accessible .

However, despite the overall positive sentiment, a segment of the public expresses cautious optimism. Concerns about the implications of rapid AI advancements are being raised, particularly around ethical dilemmas and the looming threat of job displacement. Debates are intensifying around the need for robust ethical frameworks and the role that companies like Perplexity AI should play in ensuring responsible innovation .

Nevertheless, Perplexity’s ambitious growth and strategic initiatives are seen as pivotal drivers in shaping the future of AI, contributing to an optimistic outlook for the industry. The potential for economic opportunity, technological advancements, and societal improvements remains a compelling narrative driving public interest and support .

Economic Impacts of Perplexity AI's Growth

Perplexity AI's remarkable growth following its recent funding round has profound economic implications. By securing $100 million in investment and achieving a valuation of $18 billion, Perplexity AI has not only increased its capital resources but has also positioned itself as a formidable player in the AI-driven technology market. The involvement of major backers such as Nvidia and SoftBank reflects significant investor confidence, indicating that Perplexity AI can drive the next wave of innovations in AI search tools and related technologies. This capital influx is bound to stimulate growth and bolster Perplexity AI's capabilities, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics in the industry.

Increased capital and resources will enable Perplexity AI to further invest in research and development, driving technological advancements that may redefine how AI search tools are utilized across various sectors. This could stimulate job creation in tech roles such as software development, AI research, and data analysis, directly benefiting the economy. As the company expands its products and markets, its influence could encourage other firms to enhance their offerings, fostering a more competitive environment that pushes incumbent players like Google to innovate. Consequently, consumers could benefit from improved and more accessible AI technology choices.

Perplexity AI's strategic positioning through its partnership with Bharti Airtel could potentially reshape the AI technological landscape in India by providing free access to Perplexity Pro to over 360 million users. This not only boosts Perplexity AI's market presence but also greatly enhances access to sophisticated AI tools among a broad user base. As India continues to grow as a hub for digital technology, such partnerships are vital for economic stimulation and technological dissemination, democratizing access to state-of-the-art AI resources.

However, with rapid growth, there are concerns that Perplexity AI may eventually dominate specific markets, raising potential anti-competitive issues. This prospect necessitates vigilant regulatory oversight to ensure a balanced market environment where innovation thrives without stifling competition. The company's successes could also spur regulatory dialogue around the ethical deployment of AI technologies, especially concerning data privacy, fostering a responsible innovation ecosystem.

The expansion of Perplexity AI's economic impacts is not limited to job creation and market competition alone. The company's technological advancements and growing influence can significantly alter traditional sectors, from education to e-commerce, by providing innovative solutions that increase productivity and efficiency. This would subsequently contribute to higher economic output and potentially foster new entrepreneurial activities and startups focused on AI-driven solutions, further enhancing economic diversity and resilience.

Social Impacts of Advanced AI Technology

The advent of advanced AI technologies promises transformative social impacts, particularly as demonstrated by companies like Perplexity AI. Their strategic partnerships, such as the one with Bharti Airtel, exemplify a significant shift towards democratizing AI access in regions like India, where over 360 million users gain access to Perplexity's AI capabilities. This partnership not only broadens social access to cutting-edge AI technology but also has the potential to enhance educational opportunities and information dissemination on a massive scale. Such developments are indicative of a broader trend where AI technology is increasingly embedded in everyday life, fostering an informed and connected global citizenry.

Meanwhile, product innovations like Perplexity's Comet browser herald significant changes in user interactions with the digital realm. These tools integrate AI to streamline tasks, potentially reshaping browsing habits and augmenting productivity. As AI-driven tools enhance user experience, they also present challenges, including the risks of misinformation and algorithmic bias, which could inadvertently influence public perception and behavior. Addressing these issues requires robust oversight and an emphasis on ethical AI deployment to ensure the benefits are maximized while minimizing potential harms.

Furthermore, while the spread of advanced AI technology promises to bridge gaps in digital access, it concurrently raises concerns about exacerbating existing digital divides. For regions without reliable internet or modern devices, the benefits of AI advancements remain out of reach. Efforts to extend the benefits of AI equitably are crucial to avoid widening these divides. Ensuring inclusive access to technology and fostering digital literacy can help protect against this potential pitfall and ensure that transformative technologies benefit all societal strata.

The rise of AI technologies also plays a crucial role in shaping digital literacy and the broader social landscape. By making sophisticated AI tools more widely accessible, companies like Perplexity AI are contributing to a more informed and digitally adept population. This can empower users with enhanced tools for learning and personal growth while fostering a more innovative and competitive market for digital services and content. As these technologies evolve, their social impacts will hinge on the policies and frameworks that guide their implementation and usage.

In conclusion, the social impacts of advanced AI technology, spearheaded by players like Perplexity AI, highlight both opportunities and challenges. The effective integration of AI tools into daily life can lead to substantial educational and informational advantages, increased productivity, and enhanced digital engagement. However, ensuring that these benefits are realized equitably requires vigilance and proactive measures to address concerns such as the digital divide and ethical governance in technology deployment. Fostering a balanced approach will be pivotal in steering the social benefits of AI technology towards a positive future.

Regulatory and Political Impacts

Perplexity AI's meteoric rise in valuation to $18 billion, backed by industry giants Nvidia and SoftBank, underscores a burgeoning regulatory landscape as global markets adjust to AI's disruptive potential. Such a rapid valuation increase not only highlights investor confidence but also places Perplexity AI under the microscope of financial and governmental regulatory bodies. As the AI industry continues to expand, regulatory frameworks must evolve to address potential monopolistic behaviors, data privacy concerns, and the ethical deployment of AI technologies. This dynamic calls for a delicate balance, ensuring that innovation is not stifled while safeguarding public interest and maintaining fair competition. For more details on Perplexity AI's recent advancements, visit their latest [news release](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

The political implications of Perplexity AI's partnership with Bharti Airtel are profound, giving foreign tech entities significant footholds in burgeoning markets like India. Such alliances can influence geopolitical relationships, potentially reshaping diplomatic strategies to secure technological dominance. This development hints at a future where international partnerships are not solely based on economics but also on strategic technological advantages. Policymakers must consider the implications of these alliances, particularly as nations vie for leadership in AI innovation and influence on a global scale. For a deeper understanding, see the article outlining their partnership [here](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

As Perplexity AI continues its rapid growth, the need for comprehensive regulatory oversight becomes increasingly evident. The risks associated with AI, such as algorithmic bias and potential infringement on civil liberties through misuse of data, necessitate proactive regulation. Lawmakers and regulators will need to strategize on frameworks that not only address these concerns but also anticipate future challenges posed by emerging technologies. A detailed examination of Perplexity's regulatory journey can be found in the [news article](https://techfundingnews.com/perplexity-ai-18b-valuation-funding-comet-browser-launch/).

Potential Future Implications and Uncertainties

Perplexity AI's meteoric rise, underscored by a staggering valuation increase to $18 billion, opens the door to both vast opportunities and looming uncertainties. On one hand, the substantial investment from powerhouses such as Nvidia and SoftBank gives the company significant clout to innovate and capture market share. On the other hand, this rapid escalation in valuation raises questions about sustainability and potential market corrections. The evolving AI landscape, with competitors like OpenAI and Anthropic also securing massive funding, adds layers of complexity to Perplexity's path forward. Access to the article on Perplexity AI's funding and valuation changes provides insights into the challenges and prospects that lie ahead for the company here.

The launch of Comet and strategic partnerships, especially with Bharti Airtel, underscore Perplexity AI's ambition to scale globally. However, these ventures are not without their uncertainties. Success will hinge not only on technological prowess but also on consumer adoption and satisfaction, particularly in diverse and competitive markets like India. The impact of these initiatives can be profound, altering how AI technologies integrate with everyday tools, yet the unpredictability of market reception remains a critical uncertainty. For more on the strategic moves and their implications, delve into the detailed coverage available here.

Perplexity AI's potential IPO could mark a significant milestone but also introduces new layers of financial uncertainty. While the public markets may provide additional capital for expansion, they also demand transparency and consistent performance, which could pose challenges in the volatile tech landscape. With rapid growth often comes the danger of overextension, where demand, innovation, and management capacities might not align perfectly. The path to public listing is fraught with these challenges, as highlighted in the article about Perplexity's CEO's ambitious plans found here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Perplexity AI's trajectory represents a dynamic and promising chapter in the AI landscape. The company's milestone—securing $100 million in funding—has not only bolstered its valuation to an impressive $18 billion but also solidified its position as a formidable player in the AI domain. With substantial backing from industry giants like Nvidia and SoftBank, Perplexity is well-equipped to challenge established tech behemoths, thanks to its innovative product launches and strategic market penetrations such as the Comet browser and the Bharti Airtel partnership .

The rapid rise in Perplexity AI's annualized revenue, soaring from $35 million in August 2023 to a projected $150 million by July 2025, underscores its robust growth and market traction. This financial momentum offers a glimpse into the company’s potential to redefine digital experiences through AI-driven solutions. As they eye possibilities of further expansion and a public offering, their commitment to creating a cohesive, AI-enhanced ecosystem for varied user interactions becomes increasingly palpable .

While the enthusiasm surrounding Perplexity AI is palpable, the journey ahead carries both promise and uncertainty. The company’s move into the Indian market through its partnership with Bharti Airtel opens doors to extensive new user bases, yet it also presents challenges, such as ensuring equitable access and navigating potential regulatory landscapes . As they continue to innovate, the implications of AI technology's spread—ranging from enhanced user experiences to increased digital divides—will need careful management. The agility with which Perplexity addresses these challenges will likely dictate its long-term impact and success.