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Perplexity adds offline local mode to Computer for Mac subscribers

The new option runs Computer’s model and task agent on an Apple silicon Mac, while users can authorize cloud access when a task needs online information or services.

NewsJaws DeskEditorial desk

Published 20 Oct 2026, 16:44 BST2 min read

Screenshot of Perplexity’s AI homepage — Context photograph: A view of Perplexity’s AI homepage, captured March 11, 2025. File image; it does not show the Mac app’s new local mode. PresoPoint, Perplexity AI Homepage.png (CC0 1.0) (resized and converted to WebP). CC0.Image source Image licence: CC0

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Perplexity announced a local-first mode for its Computer app on Mac on October 20, allowing Pro, Max and Enterprise subscribers to run tasks on their device even when it is offline. Both the AI model and the agent that directs a task run on the Mac, according to reports by 9to5Mac and MacStories. The change gives subscribers a way to start work locally instead of relying on cloud models from the outset.

How Computer handles local files and cloud tasks

Perplexity says planning, reasoning and file processing can take place on the device, with files reaching the cloud only if the user approves, 9to5Mac reported. With permission, Computer can work with local files and supported Mac apps including Notes, Messages, Mail and Numbers. Those are the company’s descriptions of how the mode operates; the reports do not include an independent test of its offline performance or privacy controls.

One example Perplexity gave 9to5Mac involves reviewing recent messages and emails, identifying deadlines and putting an action list in Notes. That illustrates the kind of task the company envisages for local processing, including material that may be personal or sensitive. Access to those apps and files requires the user’s permission, according to the report.

The app can still use cloud models when a user authorizes them. MacStories said that may be needed for web browsing or online apps, while 9to5Mac also cited tasks requiring current information or connected services. An offline Mac cannot retrieve fresh information from the web; users can choose cloud access for tasks that depend on it.

Subscription, model and Mac requirements

The local mode is available now to Perplexity Pro, Max and Enterprise subscribers, both publications reported. Its local model options are Qwen 3.6 and PPLX Pro; 9to5Mac said users can download and set them up through the app. Perplexity recommends an Apple silicon Mac with at least 36GB of unified memory for the best experience, a recommendation reported by both outlets rather than a stated minimum for every device.

Perplexity introduced Hybrid Compute in September, the reports said. That existing option divides work between local models and cloud models, including cloud-based research and reasoning and local work with private files. The new mode instead starts with both the model and agent on the Mac, while Hybrid Compute remains available in the same app. MacStories said local processing can also conserve subscribers’ credits; it did not provide an independent measurement of the saving.