In a significant move within the professional networking space, AI-powered search engine Perplexity has acquired Read.cv, a platform that has been competing with LinkedIn. This acquisition marks the beginning of a new chapter for both companies, as Read.cv will wind down its operations starting today. Users will have until May 16 to export their data, including profiles, posts, and messages. The Read.cv team expressed excitement about joining Perplexity, emphasizing the shared mission of making knowledge more accessible. Meanwhile, Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas highlighted the capabilities of the Read.cv team in designing and building consumer and social experiences.

A New Era for Read.cv and Perplexity

On a crisp winter day in January 2025, the professional networking landscape experienced a notable shift when Perplexity officially announced its acquisition of Read.cv. Founded in 2021 by Andy Chung, a seasoned product designer with experience at Facebook, Mozilla, and Salesforce-owned Quip, Read.cv had quickly established itself as a go-to platform for professionals seeking to share resumes, engage in industry discussions, and explore job opportunities. The platform also introduced innovative features such as Sites, allowing users to publish personal websites linked to their Read.cv profiles, even offering “.cv” domains for those who desired a personalized touch.

However, as part of the acquisition agreement, Read.cv will gradually cease operations, with users given until mid-May to back up their data. Starting January 31, “.cv” domains will be transferred to Hello.cv, ensuring continuity for those who wish to manage their online presence. While Perplexity has not disclosed detailed plans for integrating Read.cv’s functionalities, it is clear that this move aligns with Perplexity’s growing focus on corporate solutions. With investments exceeding $500 million and a valuation of $9 billion, Perplexity’s strategic acquisitions, including Carbon and Spellwise, underscore its commitment to expanding its offerings in the enterprise sector.

From a journalist's perspective, this acquisition highlights the evolving dynamics within the tech industry, where startups like Read.cv, despite their innovative contributions, may find greater impact through collaboration with larger entities. It also raises questions about the future of professional networking platforms and the role of AI in shaping these spaces. Ultimately, the merger of Read.cv and Perplexity signals a promising yet bittersweet transition, blending innovation with strategic foresight.