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AI assistants & agents

Perplexity

An AI answer engine that searches the web and cites its sources.

Category
AI assistants & agents
Maker
Perplexity AI
Source
perplexity.ai
Updated
2026-10-01
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Product insights

Perplexity at a glance

Value proposition

Search and summarization in one step, with sources attached.

Problem solved

Classic search returns links you still have to read; chatbots may answer without sources.

Audience

Students, researchers, analysts, and curious readers.

Pricing and access

Free to use, with a paid Pro tier for heavier research. See the official site for current pricing.

Market

  • AI search
  • Research

Tech stack

  • Live web retrieval
  • Multiple LLMs

What is Perplexity?

Perplexity AI is an AI-powered search engine. Each answer is generated from pages it retrieves in real time and links back to them, which makes it easier to check facts than a plain chatbot.

How to use Perplexity

  1. 01

    Ask a question

    Type a question in natural language.

  2. 02

    Check the sources

    Open the numbered citations to verify key claims.

  3. 03

    Go deeper

    Ask follow-ups or switch to a research mode for a full report.

Key features of Perplexity

  • Real-time web search
  • Inline citations
  • Follow-up conversations
  • Deep research reports

What is Perplexity best for?

  • Fact-checking and quick research
  • Comparing products
  • Learning a new topic

FAQ about Perplexity

Is Perplexity better than Google?

It is faster for summarized answers with sources; Google is still better for navigating to a specific site.

Can I use Perplexity for free?

Yes. The free tier covers everyday searches; Pro adds more advanced searches and models.

Official website snapshot

perplexity.ai

Perplexity answers questions by searching the live web and writing a summary with numbered citations. Follow-up questions keep context, and deeper research modes compile longer reports. It is available on the web, mobile, and desktop.