Perplexity unveils ‘Perplexity Computer,’ expanding AI from answers to autonomous work

Perplexity AI has announced the launch of “Perplexity Computer,” a new platform designed to move artificial intelligence beyond answering questions and into executing complex, multi-step tasks on behalf of users.

The company, which first gained prominence for its AI-powered answer engine that delivers conversational responses with cited sources, is positioning the new system as a major evolution of its technology. With Perplexity Computer, users can describe an end goal rather than submit a single prompt, and the system autonomously plans, organizes and completes the necessary steps to deliver a finished result.

Chief executive Aravind Srinivas described the product as the company’s “next big step,” signaling a broader ambition to compete in the fast-growing market for AI agents capable of handling real-world workflows. Unlike traditional AI assistants that respond to isolated requests, Perplexity Computer is designed to manage sustained projects that may involve research, writing, coding, design and deployment.

At the heart of the system is a multi-model orchestration framework. Rather than relying on a single large language model, Perplexity Computer coordinates a network of specialized AI models and assigns subtasks to the most suitable system. Some models are optimized for deep research, others for software development, and others for media generation or data processing. The platform breaks down complex objectives into smaller components, executes them in sequence or in parallel as needed, and maintains context across sessions through persistent memory.

The system also operates within structured digital environments that allow it to browse the web, access files and use software tools in a controlled manner. This architecture enables it not only to generate text but also to produce tangible outputs such as reports, applications and prototypes.

Currently, Perplexity Computer is available to subscribers on the company’s highest-tier plan, with broader access expected in the months ahead. The company has not disclosed detailed pricing or usage limits beyond indicating that the system operates on a credit-based structure for computational tasks.

This launch is part of a wider shift in artificial intelligence, as companies race to develop autonomous agents capable of performing meaningful work with limited human oversight. While AI chatbots have already transformed how users search for information, platforms like Perplexity Computer suggest the next phase may involve delegating substantial portions of digital labor to AI systems.

Perplexity’s new offering could expand its AI’s role from an answer engine to a comprehensive productivity platform, potentially reshaping workflows in research, business operations and software development.