Perplexity Launches Native Mac App, Challenging AI Competitors
Perplexity, the AI-focused search startup, has unveiled its native Mac app, marking a significant step in its competition with established AI applications like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Quora’s Poe. The launch follows a period of anticipation, during which Perplexity teased the app and allowed users to sign up for pre-orders.
The new Mac app is available for free, with an optional Perplexity Pro subscription priced at $20 monthly or $200 annually. Pro subscribers gain access to over 300 in-depth searches, a substantial increase from the free tier’s offerings. The app boasts several user-friendly features, including keyboard shortcut-activated searches, voice mode, file upload capabilities, and voice dictation. These audio-centric features cater to users who prefer voice interactions over traditional text input.
Additionally, the app allows users to ask follow-up questions and access their conversation history through a convenient sidebar, enhancing the overall user experience and search continuity.
This release builds upon Perplexity’s previous mobile app launches for iOS and Android platforms last year, expanding its reach across multiple devices and operating systems.
However, Perplexity’s growth hasn’t been without challenges. Recent reports from The Wall Street Journal indicate that the company is seeking to raise $500 million, potentially doubling its valuation to $8 billion. This ambitious funding goal comes amid legal concerns, as The New York Times has issued a cease-and-desist letter to Perplexity, alleging unauthorized scraping and plagiarism of its content.
As Perplexity continues to expand its product offerings and user base, it remains to be seen how the company will navigate these financial and legal challenges while competing in the rapidly evolving AI search market.