Perplexity has launched a new voice assistant designed for iOS devices. This innovative assistant is powered by the company’s proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) answer engine and features web browsing capabilities, allowing it to navigate various apps to perform tasks. The introduction of the voice assistant follows the rollout of the Perplexity Assistant for Android devices, which occurred three months prior. According to the company, the AI assistant can handle a range of complex tasks, including making restaurant reservations, sending emails, and managing calendar invitations.
Perplexity’s Voice Assistant for iOS Incorporates Web Search Capability
In a recent announcement on X (formerly Twitter), Perplexity shared details about the availability of its voice assistant for iOS users. Individuals who have already installed the Perplexity app on their iPhones can gain access to the AI assistant by updating the application. Currently, the feature is available free of charge and does not necessitate the download of an additional app.
To utilize the Perplexity Assistant, users simply need to open the app and tap on the waveform icon located in the lower right corner of the interface, adjacent to the text input field. This action brings up the AI assistant in a full-screen format, visually represented as a globe of sparkling particles. Users can pose questions, and the assistant will respond accordingly or carry out the appropriate action.
The assistant is capable of executing all query-based functions similar to Siri and can manage various on-device tasks, including toggling the flashlight, setting reminders or alarms, and initiating phone calls to contacts.
Furthermore, the AI assistant can access certain applications on the device to perform more complex actions. For example, if a user requests, “book a table for two at the Taj Hotel tomorrow at 2:30 PM,” the Perplexity Assistant will be able to access the hotel’s reservation website or a compatible third-party service. It will input the necessary information and share the page with the user for any necessary modifications before finalizing the booking.
Additionally, Perplexity’s voice assistant can send emails and calendar invitations, as well as assist in finding products for online purchases. However, it’s important to note that the AI assistant does not operate autonomously; it cannot complete actions without user confirmation. While it can draft emails or fill out forms, users will need to tap the confirmation button to finalize any action.
The AI-driven search platform is actively taking steps to enhance its user base. Recently, it introduced a bot on X that can respond to user inquiries when mentioned in replies to posts. Reports indicate that Perplexity has also established a partnership with Motorola, aiming to integrate the AI assistant into its forthcoming devices.
