Perplexity launched an AI agent for Mac with local data processing

Perplexity has introduced a fully local mode for Computer on Mac computers with Apple silicon processors. Now, the AI agent can plan tasks, analyze files, and interact with applications directly on the device without sending personal data to the cloud.

Computer works with local files and supported applications, including Notes, Messages, Mail, and Numbers. With user permission, the agent can, for example, review a to-do list in notes, check a colleague's request in messages, compare planned and actual expenses in Excel, and prepare a project progress report.

For local operation, Qwen 3.6 and PPLX Pro models are available — the latter being a version of Qwen further trained by Perplexity. The company recommends using a Mac with at least 36 GB of RAM.

Users can also choose the Hybrid Compute mode, which combines cloud models for information retrieval and complex reasoning with local processing of sensitive data. If needed, the local agent can access cloud models to obtain up-to-date information, work with the browser, and interact with connected applications.

Perplexity Computer in local mode is available to Pro, Max, and Enterprise subscribers via the Perplexity app for Mac on compatible Apple silicon computers. Code execution and tool usage occur in an isolated environment with controlled access to files and applications.

Source: perplexity.ai