GoKawiilPerplexity adds local-first mode to Computer agent for Mac
Perplexity has introduced a local-first option for its Computer agent in the Mac app, allowing both the AI model and the task-directing agent to run entirely on-device, including offline. The feature lets Computer plan, reason and process files locally, working with apps like Notes, Messages, Mail and Numbers, and only sends data to the cloud with user approval.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The move builds on Perplexity's earlier Hybrid Compute feature and suggests the company is prioritizing privacy and offline reliability as selling points for its paid tiers. Requiring Apple silicon with at least 36GB of unified memory indicates this capability is aimed at higher-end hardware, which could limit adoption until local AI models become more efficient.
- Local-first mode runs both the AI model and agent entirely on Mac, even offline
- Available to Perplexity Pro, Max, and Enterprise subscribers using Qwen 3.6 or PPLX Pro
- Requires an Apple silicon Mac with at least 36GB of unified memory
Apple Mac Mini M4 — Running AI tasks fully on-device means having solid local compute matters, and the Mac Mini M4 offers Apple's efficient silicon ideal for local-first workloads like Perplexity's new offline Computer mode. It's a compact, affordable way to get into the Apple ecosystem for running these on-device AI features smoothly.
See Apple Mac Mini M4 on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Zac Hall, 2026-10-20
Published there as: “Perplexity’s Computer can now run entirely on your Mac, even offline”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.