Perplexity has released an update for its iOS app, adding functionality for the company’s conversational AI voice assistant. Now, users on Apple devices can activate the assistant to handle tasks such as drafting emails, setting reminders, and making restaurant reservations.
One of the notable features allows users to navigate away from the app while still interacting with the assistant. However, the voice assistant currently does not support screen sharing on iOS, a feature available on its Android counterpart. Additionally, some of the enhancements promised for Siri, which is integrated with Apple Intelligence, may still be more than a year away. Unlike Apple’s offering, Perplexity’s assistant is compatible with older devices, including the iPhone 13 mini.
When the Android version debuted in January, a representative from Perplexity mentioned to Technology News that availability on iPhones and iPads would occur once the necessary permissions were granted by Apple. It appears that arrangement has now been finalized.
I installed Perplexity on my iPhone today and tested its functionality by asking it to set a reminder for me to start preparing dinner at 7 PM. I received a prompt requesting permission to access my reminders, which I granted. The assistant added the reminder as intended. When I attempted to compose a text message, Perplexity sought permission to access my contacts. I declined, but I appreciated its suggestion to simply say the intended phone number directly instead of encountering a dead end.
Additionally, I experimented with booking a table at a restaurant, as shown in a demonstration video by Perplexity. The mobile assistant successfully opened Open Table and filled in the dates and times I spoke. However, users still need to finalize the reservation on their own through the interface. Perplexity is also able to launch the Uber app and arrange a ride.
Despite these advancements, Perplexity’s voice assistant has its limitations on iOS. It is not equipped to analyze camera inputs and provide context visually, unlike some other AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Grok. However, it remains functional as a standard text-based chatbot for inquiries about images. Users also cannot rely on it to set scheduled alarms on their iPhone, which still requires Siri’s assistance.
