Perplexity AI is making waves as a powerful search and answer engine that leverages large language models (LLMs) to provide direct, cited answers to your queries. While it’s readily accessible through web browsers, you can also install it as a dedicated app on your Windows 11 or 10 computer. This article will guide you through three different methods to get Perplexity AI up and running on your PC.
Method 1: Install the Official Perplexity AI App
The most straightforward way to use Perplexity AI on your Windows machine is by installing the official desktop application. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Visit the official Perplexity AI website and navigate to the download page.
Step 2: Click on the “Download on Windows” button. This will save the installer file to your computer.
Step 3: Locate the downloaded file (usually named something like “Perplexity Setup x.x.x-x64.exe”) in your Downloads folder.
Step 4: Double-click the installer file to launch it.
Step 5: When prompted, click the “Install” button to begin the installation process.
Once the installation is complete, you’ll find the Perplexity AI app in your Start menu. The desktop version mirrors the web interface, featuring a central text prompt and a sidebar for accessing various sections like your search history, spaces, and discovery feed.
To remove the app later, go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find Perplexity in the list, click on the three-dot menu next to it, and select “Uninstall”.
Method 2: Install Perplexity AI as a Web App in Microsoft Edge
If you prefer using Microsoft Edge, you can install Perplexity AI as a Progressive Web App (PWA). This option gives you quick access to Perplexity without the need for a full desktop installation. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and navigate to the Perplexity AI website.
Step 2: Sign in to your Perplexity account if you haven’t already.
Step 3: Click on the Settings and more (three dots) button in the top-right corner of Edge.
Step 4: In the dropdown menu, hover over “Apps” and then click on “Install this site as an app”.
Step 5: A pop-up window will appear. Click “Install” to add Perplexity AI as a web app.
After installation, you’ll find Perplexity AI in your Start menu, allowing you to launch it like any other app. To uninstall, right-click the app in the Start menu and select “Uninstall”, or remove it through the Settings app as described in Method 1.
Method 3: Install Perplexity AI as a Web App in Google Chrome
Chrome users can also install Perplexity AI as a web app. The process is similar to Edge, with a few small differences:
Step 1: Open Google Chrome and go to the Perplexity AI website.
Step 2: Click on the Customize and control (three dots) button in the top-right corner of Chrome.
Step 3: In the dropdown menu, hover over “Cast, save, and share” and then select “Install pages as app”.
Step 4: A dialog box will appear, allowing you to customize the app name if desired. Click “Install” to proceed.
Once installed, you can access Perplexity AI from your Start menu or desktop shortcut. To uninstall, use the same methods described for the other installation types.
Each of these methods provides a convenient way to access Perplexity AI on your Windows PC. Choose the one that best fits your browsing habits and system preferences. Whether you opt for the full desktop app or a browser-based web app, you’ll have the power of Perplexity’s AI-driven search and answer capabilities at your fingertips.
Now that you’ve got Perplexity AI installed, start exploring its capabilities. From quick fact-checking to in-depth research, this tool can significantly streamline your information-gathering process.