Perplexity AI is an AI-based search engine that aspires to rival Google. It is an AI-chat-based conversational search engine that can help you find information on a wide range of topics quickly. Powered by the capabilities of OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 combined with a large language model, it uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) and machine learning to provide precise and accurate answers to questions.

Now, unlike a typical search engine, Perplexity has a chatbot-like interface. This means that users can ask questions in natural language. And even the AI responds in natural language to your answers. So, instead of of perusing links to find the answer you’re looking for, you can get direct answers to your queries. It even cites sites and sources from around the web that it browsed to provide the answer. You can also ask follow-up questions on any topic for a deeper dive, and Perplexity will respond, keeping its earlier responses in context. It also has access to the Internet to get up to date information for your queries, and it is available on the web and as an app!

Pricing

Perplexity is a free to use program, however, there is a premium version available. Perplexity Pro costs $20/month or $200/year and offers nearly unlimited Copilot (the AI Search Companion) usage, GPT-4 access, dedicated support, and updated information. The yearly plan does offer a free seven day trail.