What is Perplexity?

Overview

Conversational Search
- Chat-like interface for user interaction.
- Understands nuanced queries and provides contextually relevant responses.
Source Citations
- Inline citations in every answer.
- Allows users to verify information and access original sources.
Real-Time Information Retrieval
- Continuously updates with the most recent information.
Multimodal Capabilities
- Supports file uploads (PDFs, Word, Excel), image analysis.
- Useful for research, summarization, and data analysis.
Customizable Search Modes
- Specialized modes for academic research, writing, mathematics, etc.
Collaboration Tools
- Features like "Spaces" for organizing research and collaboration.

Freemium Model
- Free Tier: Access to basic features like conversational search and real-time web search.
- Pro Subscription: Advanced capabilities with multiple top-tier LLMs, deeper research tools, API access.
- Enterprise Solutions: Business features like multi-user licensing and internal knowledge search.

Founded: 2022 in San Francisco by Aravind Srinivas, Denis Yarats, Johnny Ho, and Andy Konwinski.
Valuation: By 2024, valued at $9 billion, backed by investors like Jeff Bezos, Nvidia, and Databricks.
Recognition: Pioneer in the "answer engine" space.

Feature	Perplexity	Traditional Search Engines
Answer Format	Direct, conversational, cited answers	List of links
Real-Time Updates	Yes	Varies
Source Transparency	Inline citations	Rarely
Multimodal Support	Yes (text, files, images)	Limited
Personalization	Learns user interests over time	Limited
Collaboration Tools	Built-in (Spaces, project management)	Not standard

Perplexity combines AI-powered chatbots with real-time web search.
Provides fast, accurate, and transparent answers.
Valuable for individuals, professionals, and organizations needing reliable information.