Perplexity Personal Computer

Always-On AI Agent Running on Mac mini

Announced March 11, 2026

What Is Personal Computer?

• Always-on AI agent that runs on your Mac mini
• Merges local apps with Perplexity Computer
• Works 24/7 in the background
• Your personal AI assistant that never sleeps

The Hardware: Mac mini

• Compact - Small footprint, fits anywhere
• Powerful - M-series chips deliver serious performance
• Energy Efficient - Low power consumption for 24/7 operation
• AI Cloud Computer - Becoming the device of choice for personal AI infrastructure

How It Works

• Local merge with Perplexity Computer
• Runs continuously on your Mac mini
• Controllable from any device, anywhere
• Never sleeps - always ready to assist

Key Features

• Access to your files, apps, and sessions
• Remote control from anywhere
• 24/7 operation without interruption
• Secure local environment

Security & Control

• Runs on Perplexity's secure servers
• User approval required for sensitive actions
• Complete action logging
• Kill switch available for immediate shutdown

vs OpenClaw

• Similar concept but more contained and refined
• Competes with Claude Cowork
• Optimizes subtasks by selecting best models
• More polished user experience

Capabilities

• 19 AI models running in parallel
• Research, design, code, deploy, and manage
• End-to-end project management
• Intelligent model selection for each subtask

Pricing & Availability

• $200/month for Perplexity Max users
• Waitlist now open
• Initial cohort with dedicated support
• Rolling access as capacity expands

Why It Matters

• Mac mini as AI infrastructure
• Local + cloud hybrid approach
• Always-on personal AI assistant
• The future of personal computing

Community Reaction

"This is what I've been waiting for - a true always-on AI assistant"

"Mac mini as AI infrastructure makes so much sense"

"$200/month is steep but could be worth it for power users"

"Finally, competition for Claude Cowork and OpenClaw"