The new Mac app from Perplexity has been released – with “Personal Computer” as the control panel | News

The name may take some getting used to, because “personal computer” is generally associated with the computer itself and not a program. However, the AI ​​provider Perplexity describes a main function of the macOS app, which is intended to function as a personal computer assistant. Perplexity speaks on the product pages of a “personal orchestrator” that combines local and server-side processing. The agent can access the file system, active apps and native Mac applications, as well as use the web and operate web-based tools using Perplexity’s Comet browser. As examples, Perplexity cites tasks such as working through a to-do list, sorting a confusing download folder or comparing local files with information from the web.

Safety precautions
For security reasons, files created by personal computers should end up in a protected sandbox. In addition, Perplexity describes the agent’s actions as verifiable and reversible. This is a very important point, because an AI agent with access to local files and apps is significantly more sensitive than a classic chatbot in the browser – and users certainly don’t want to be worried that a misguided AI agent is playing tricks with their personal data treasure.

Mac mini recommended as ideal hardware
In the announcement, Perplexity also has a tip about which hardware they recommend. The Mac mini offers the best experience because it can run as a permanently switched on agent computer – although this also applies to any other Mac that is operated stationary. However, the manufacturer praised the Mac mini a few weeks ago as the perfect 24/7 AI workstation because the performance was sufficient for all needs and the price was comparatively cheap.

System requirements and costs
Perplexity documents macOS 15 Sequoia or newer as a system requirement. By the way, the previous older Mac app is due to expire in the coming weeks. Although the new software can be downloaded free of charge, a paid subscription is required to use it on a personal computer. Prices start at $20 per month, unlike before it no longer has to be the more expensive Max Access at $200. If you don’t want to pay anything, you at least get functions such as search, chats and dictation. The Perplexity app is “not yet” available in the Mac App Store, as the provider writes.