Perplexity enters Google territory with a new AI assistant for Android that can control apps and manage tasks itself. This decision puts the startup in direct competition with Google’s Gemini assistant.
According to CEO Aravind Srinivasthe launch of Perplexity Assistant for Android represents a significant change for the company. “This marks the puzzle transition from a response engine to a natively integrated assistant,” says Srinivas.
Video: bewilderment
The new assistant can handle everything from reserving restaurant tables and calling Uber rides to searching YouTube videos and setting reminders. It’s designed to maintain context throughout conversations – if you’re looking for somewhere to eat, you can start by asking about restaurant recommendations, then reserve a table in the same chat. The assistant accomplishes this by searching the Internet and connecting to services like OpenTable, although Perplexity hasn’t shared specific details about the reliability of these features.
Announcement
Video: bewilderment
One of the Assistant’s main features is its ability to handle multiple types of input – users can interact via voice commands and their camera. The system can analyze anything in front of the camera or on the screen and answer questions about it, similar to what Chatgpt already offers and what Google plans to bring to Gemini.
Video: bewilderment
A challenge to Google’s market power?
Srinivas points out that Google has maintained its grip on Android search by forcing manufacturers to include Google Search if they want access to the Play Store. However, he sees AI assistants as a chance to level the playing field. Users can set Perplexity Assistant as the default Android assistant without paying anything.
The timing is interesting – yesterday Google announced new Gemini features, including the ability to control multiple apps with a single command. While Perplexity’s Assistant appears to offer more capabilities at first glance, the startup faces an uphill battle trying to replace Google’s default Assistant on its own Android platform.
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