Perplexity Launches iOS Voice Assistant as Apple Faces AI Delays

• Perplexity Launches iOS Voice Assistant:

  CEO Aravind Srinivas announced the iOS voice assistant allows users to ask questions, compose emails, play media, set alerts, and interact with apps like OpenTable, YouTube, Apple Music, Apple Maps, Google Calendar, Uber, and others. It pre-fills tasks like reservations, video searches, reminders, and ride bookings while requiring minimal user follow-up. Web browsing capabilities further allow users to request information such as restaurant recommendations or specific videos.

• Proactive Capabilities Beyond Siri:

  Unlike Siri, Perplexity’s assistant proactively completes tasks such as filling out reservation forms, scanning calendars for upcoming appointments, preparing navigation directions, drafting emails, and marking recommended locations on maps. Users must confirm final actions like sending emails or booking reservations. This reflects a broader shift toward “agentic AI,” where the assistant actively executes tasks rather than passively suggesting results.

• Expanded System Integration:

  Perplexity integrates with native iPhone apps to set reminders (Apple Reminders, Google Calendar), open podcasts, display routes via Apple Maps, and facilitate ride-hailing through Uber. It plays well with third-party apps like YouTube and OpenTable. However, it cannot yet directly send text messages, access the camera, control system settings like Do Not Disturb, or set alarms. If denied certain permissions (e.g., contact access), the assistant prompts alternatives like dictating a phone number.

• Performance Advantages:

  Perplexity maintains conversation context even when users navigate away from the app, enabling true multitasking across platforms like email and Instagram. This contrasts with Siri, which often loses session continuity when switching apps.

• Device Compatibility:

  The assistant performs effectively on older iPhones, such as the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 mini, without requiring the latest hardware. This inclusivity contrasts with Apple Intelligence, which limits access to only newer models, offering Perplexity a broader adoption base.

• Limitations of the Current Version:

  Despite strengths, Perplexity on iOS cannot control native iPhone features like setting alarms, activating Do Not Disturb, or accessing the camera for visual prompts (features available in some competitors like ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice and Gemini Live). These functions could be added in future updates, pending Apple’s system permissions.

• Availability:

  Perplexity’s new iOS voice assistant is available in both free and paid tiers of Perplexity’s iOS app. Users must update the app, provide permissions (microphone, reminders, calendar, contacts, location, notifications), and tap the microphone icon to activate voice interactions. Accounts can be created via email, Apple ID, or Google credentials.

• Strategic Expansion via Motorola:

  Perplexity’s app is preloading on the new Motorola Razr phones, broadening its presence into the Android market. Notably, its Android version also offers additional features like screen sharing, which are not yet available on iOS.

• Timing Amid Apple’s Struggles:

  Apple’s “Apple Intelligence” initiative has faced delays since its 2024 announcement. Marketing campaigns were pulled, leadership reorganized under Mike Rockwell, and the full generative AI upgrade for Siri, initially targeted for iOS 18, is now delayed until “the coming year” or beyond, leaving users with limited improvements for now.

• Siri and ChatGPT Integration:

  Although ChatGPT integration into Siri is live, it requires manual activation. Apple’s incomplete fulfillment of its generative Siri promise has created a competitive opportunity that Perplexity’s more proactive and task-focused assistant is addressing.

• Industry Context and Rising Trends:

  Perplexity’s advancements mirror the broader shift toward digital assistants capable of real-world execution rather than static responses. Competitors like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini Live are pursuing similar agentic models, emphasizing hands-on task fulfillment across apps and services.

• Privacy and User Options:

  Perplexity collects user data for model training but allows users to opt out in settings. The app offers customization options, including two conversation modes, subtitle toggling, and six selectable AI voices. Permission prompts ensure transparent data access management, enhancing user trust.

Why This Matters:

As Apple’s AI developments stall, Perplexity’s proactive new iOS voice assistant offers an immediate, smarter alternative. Its real-world execution capabilities, seamless third-party app integrations, ability to maintain conversations across app navigation, and inclusive device compatibility position it not only as a strong Siri competitor but also as a blueprint for the next generation of digital assistants evolving toward true agentic AI.