Perplexity launches fully local Computer mode for Apple silicon Macs

Perplexity has introduced a local mode for Computer that keeps AI reasoning and task execution on a Mac. The feature is available to subscribers on its Pro, Max and Enterprise plans.

The software supports Macs with Apple silicon, and Perplexity recommends at least 36 GB of unified memory. Its initial model choices are Qwen 3.6 and PPLX Pro, which Perplexity developed through additional training of Qwen.

With permission, Computer can handle private files and work in applications including Mail, Notes and Messages. The company says the local mode keeps planning and file processing on the device, while optional cloud access supports tasks requiring online information or additional models.

The release extends Perplexity's earlier Mac automation and Hybrid Compute features. Setup requires the latest Mac app and a downloaded local model, after which subscribers can select local execution for their tasks.