Tool profile · Research

Perplexity

Start with cited search, then continue into file analysis and deeper research

Perplexity is an AI search and research product centered on source transparency, with follow-up questions, file analysis, Research reports, and project workspaces.

AI searchCitationsDeep researchFile analysisProjects

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01 / Overview

About

Perplexity searches the public web and presents answers alongside the original sources. Users can ask follow-up questions, upload files, organize work in Projects, and use Research for cited reports on complex topics. It is best used as a verifiable research starting point rather than an unquestioned final answer.

02 / Core features

Core features

Cited AI search

Each answer links to source material for verification and further reading.

Research mode

Runs iterative searches, reading, and reasoning to produce a structured report.

File and image analysis

Upload PDFs, spreadsheets, audio, video, or images and continue analyzing them.

Projects

Keep threads, files, custom instructions, and collaborators together around a topic.

03 / Use cases

Use cases

Quick fact checking

Find the sources first, then decide whether the evidence supports the claim.

Topic and market research

Break a complex question into multiple searches and produce a cited report.

Document review and comparison

Upload files, extract key points, compare perspectives, and ask follow-ups.

04 / Platforms and languages

Platforms and languages

Platforms and devices

WebiOSAndroidmacOS

Languages

Multilingual questions and interface

Research is available on web, mobile, and the Mac app; modes and limits vary by plan.

05 / Pricing and quotas

Pricing and quotas

Standard

$0 / Free

Includes basic search, search history, and limited Pro Search and file uploads.

06 / Similar products

Frequently asked questions

01Do citations guarantee that an answer is correct?

No. Citations improve traceability, but you still need to open the source and decide whether it supports the answer.

02Can free users access Research?

The official help center says free users receive limited Research access; current allowances can change.

03Can it analyze uploaded files?

Yes. Supported file types, size, and volume depend on the current plan.

08 / Sources

Sources

SourceOfficial Perplexity product overview

Search, citations, models, files, and creation features, verified 2026-08-08.

2026-08-08 SourceOfficial Perplexity Research guide

Research workflow, outputs, and free access notes, verified 2026-08-08.

2026-08-08 SourceOfficial Perplexity plan comparison

Standard, Pro, Max, and enterprise plan capabilities, verified 2026-08-08.

2026-08-08