Perplexity AI has rolled out a significant overhaul of its iPad application, transforming it from a scaled-up mobile interface into a native iPadOS experience. The update, announced by CEO Aravind Srinivas on X, is specifically designed to cater to the growing base of students and professionals who rely on the iPad for intensive research and productivity.
Native iPadOS Experience
The previous Perplexity app on iPad often presented a stretched version of its iPhone counterpart, leading to a suboptimal user experience on the larger screen. The redesign directly addresses this long-standing complaint among iPad users, leveraging iPadOS features for a more intuitive and efficient workflow.
Key improvements include full support for iPadOS multitasking features such as Split View and Slide Over. This allows users to seamlessly run Perplexity alongside other applications like note-taking tools or document editors, integrating the AI search engine directly into their existing workflows. The interface now also features a persistent sidebar, mirroring desktop browser layouts for easier navigation and access to features.
Enhanced Research Capabilities
Beyond multitasking, the updated Perplexity iPad app introduces several research-focused enhancements. Users will find improved citation displays, making it simpler to verify sources and trace information. Personalized discovery feeds are also included, helping users explore related topics and delve deeper into subjects on the iPad’s high-resolution display.
Srinivas emphasized the goal was to combine the “polish and finesse” of the iOS app with the robust functionality typically associated with desktop usage, providing a comprehensive research environment on the go.
Boosting Power User Engagement
This strategic revamp is expected to bolster Perplexity’s appeal among power users and encourage adoption of its Pro subscription tier. The Pro offering provides access to advanced AI models, including GPT-5.2, Claude Sonnet 4.5, and Gemini 3 Pro. By enhancing the iPad app’s capabilities as a serious research tool, Perplexity is positioning its premium services as essential for students and professionals utilizing larger-screen devices like the iPad.
Company Momentum
The iPad app update arrives amidst a busy period for the AI startup. Perplexity recently launched its Comet browser for Android and continues to expand its Shopping Hub, which offers AI-generated product recommendations. CEO Srinivas also recently issued a warning about “fake” versions of the upcoming Comet browser for iOS, advising users to await an official announcement before downloading.
The updated Perplexity app is now readily available on the Apple App Store, aiming to serve as a productive “dynamic copilot” for users on Apple’s tablet platform.