Perplexity Computer can now run fully offline on Apple-silicon Macs

Perplexity Computer can now run entirely on supported Apple-silicon Macs. The AI model, the agent harness, task planning, reasoning and file processing all run on the device, and tasks can run without an internet connection.

Two models are supported: Qwen 3.6, or PPLX Pro, a version of Qwen 3.6 that Perplexity post-trained for Computer use. With permission, the agent works with local files and Mac apps including Notes, Messages, Mail and Numbers. One example: review messages and emails, find outstanding deadlines and create a task list in Notes. Code and tool execution run in isolated sandboxes.

Cloud use is optional. Users can authorize a call to one of more than 15 cloud models for tasks that need fresh information, browser use or a frontier model. Sending a message or invite still goes through that app's own service.

The recommended hardware is 36 GB of unified memory or more, and the company points to new Mac mini models. The alternative is Hybrid Compute, launched in September, which starts in the cloud and works with a 24 GB minimum. The local mode is available now in the Mac app to Pro, Max and Enterprise subscribers. The company says local runs give more control over sensitive data and credit spend. It follows Portable Computer, a local-first option launched in August and September that also covers Windows.

Our take

Running both the model and the agent on-device is a real step for people who want an agent near private files without a cloud round trip. The 36 GB recommendation is the catch, since it rules out many existing Macs.