The generative AI search service Perplexity is coming to macOS with a native application, after ChatGPT. Available on the Mac App Store from October 15, it promises advanced integration to revolutionize online search. A subscription is required to take full advantage of its capabilities. But will this be enough in the face of Apple’s offensive and its upcoming Intelligence?
Extensive integration in macOS
According to the screenshots in the app sheet, Perplexity will integrate quite well into macOS. Its interface is reminiscent of Alfred or Raycast type launchers, allowing quick access to the service outside the browser. It will be possible to chain the questions together to refine the results, a bit like a natural conversation. We will have to see to what extent the macOS app is an added value compared to the web version available for a very long time now.
Perplexity stands out for its ability to provide precise answers and to summarize web content well, even leaving the choice of sources to the user. The Mac app will offer features such as professional search by voice or text, conversation tracking, source tracking and history.
Free application but subscription recommended
If downloading the Perplexity app will be free, in-app purchases will be offered, probably for Perplexity Pro at €18/month. The latter unlocks advanced features on the web service and the app, including access to more advanced language models.
The app will require macOS 13 minimum and will be translated into French upon launch. Users can already pre-order it on the Mac App Store and activate notifications to be alerted of its release on October 15. An iOS version has also been available for a while on the App Store.
Apple’s response is being prepared
It remains to be seen whether this arrival of generative AI in the form of native apps will be sufficient to counter Apple’s offensive in this area. The firm is actively preparing its Apple Intelligence which will undoubtedly be deeply integrated into the ecosystem. Third-party players will find it difficult to compete in this area.
However, Perplexity will be available much more widely and quickly than Apple Intelligence, including in France. Power users will undoubtedly appreciate being able to access this new type of search directly from their Mac, without using a browser. The AI battle on macOS has only just begun, but Apple maintains a clear long-term advantage thanks to its control of the platform.
