Perplexity announced the launch of Personal Computer on Wednesday, a new AI agent tool designed to transform spare Mac computers into dedicated AI systems that operate on users' local networks.

The tool is positioned as "a digital proxy" that runs continuously on a dedicated device, representing Perplexity's expansion beyond its core search and answer engine services. Personal Computer operates as a locally-run AI system, distinguishing it from cloud-based AI services.

The system is designed to function around the clock on users' local networks, providing continuous AI assistance through the repurposed Mac hardware. This approach allows users to leverage existing computer hardware for AI agent capabilities.

Perplexity has indicated that the system includes what it describes as security measures for AI access to user files, stating the tool operates in a "secure environment with clear safeguards." The company has not provided detailed specifications about the security implementation or system requirements.

The launch represents Perplexity's effort to expand its AI offerings beyond traditional search functions into more comprehensive AI agent services that can operate independently on user hardware.