Perplexity to release a macOS app in October 2024 Perplexity to release a macOS app in October 2024

Perplexity plans to launch its native macOS app on October 15, 2024, and it promises to be an exciting addition to the domain of AI-driven tools. The makers call it “a generative AI-based conversational and search platform,” and this one-liner does justice to what their creation is capable of.

Perplexity distinguishes itself with its ability to provide precise answers and summarize web content effectively, unlike some of its competitors. The difference is in the provision of specific sources the info is collected from while compiling the answer to your query, which drastically ups the reliability of the said answers.

The app will be available for download on the Mac App Store, and feature several tools designed to enhance user interaction. The main one is Pro Search, which allows for both voice, text, and picture inputs, yielding versatile querying routines. Additionally, the app will offer Thread Follow-Up to maintain ongoing conversations, the mentioned lists of sources of information, and a history search function to revisit past interactions. The app will be free to download and use, but using Pro Search requires a subscription.

The idea behind Perplexity, which was launched in December 2022, is simple: while other AIs hallucinate and make up stuff, it delivers credible, up-to-date answers while cutting through the noise of the search engine results pages. Can’t wait to use the engine? Just go to perplexity.ai and enjoy the ride.

Is there a ChatGPT native macOS app available?

Glad you asked! There is. Initially available only to paid subscribers, it is now available to everyone.

The app is designed to enhance the user experience with streamlined access and additional features. You can summon it by pressing Option + Space, and ask questions without much interruption to your workflow.

One of the standout features of the ChatGPT app is its ability to analyze images and screenshots. You can take a screenshot of any open window or use your Mac's webcam to capture images, which the AI can then analyze to provide relevant information. For instance, you could take a picture of a bird and ask ChatGPT about its species or proofread a document by uploading a screenshot. 

Another cool feature of the ChatGPT app for macOS is voice interactions: you can speak your queries and receive spoken responses. Particularly handy in multitasking scenarios, or if you simply prefer dictating over typing.

The app is built on macOS 14 and requires Apple Silicon (M1 or better), ensuring optimized performance. It includes other useful functionalities such as file uploads, a side panel for viewing past conversations, and an upcoming Memory feature that allows the AI to remember user preferences. You can get your copy of the ChatGPT app for Mac in the App Store. If that feels like too much of a commitment, or you want a lighter, no-strings-attached alternative, consider the open-source ChatGPT application built by enthusiasts:

ChatGPT app for macOS menubar

Either way, the world’s best-known AI will be a click away, which surely is a sweet deal.

Author's other posts

No old dogs: Microsoft adds AI features to Paint and Notepad
Article
No old dogs: Microsoft adds AI features to Paint and Notepad
Windows classics Paint and Notepad evolve into AI-powered tools. Try generative fill and erase in Paint or rephrase sentences with AI in Notepad by joining the Canary Channel now!
macOS 15.1 out: what’s inside? And what’s promised for 15.2?
Article
macOS 15.1 out: what’s inside? And what’s promised for 15.2?
macOS 15.1 gives you Apple Intelligence features and more.
Proven: we don't really work on Fridays. Is there a cure?
Article
Proven: we don't really work on Fridays. Is there a cure?
Fridays mix tiredness and anticipation, leading to lower productivity. A study suggests solutions like a 4-day workweek or Focus Fridays with clear plans to combat the slump.
You can now pre-order the new M4/M4Pro Mac mini
Article
You can now pre-order the new M4/M4Pro Mac mini
The new Mac mini with M4 or M4 Pro chip looks like a bargain at the price point set by Apple for the computer. As of today, it's available for pre-order, shipping from November, 8.