AI-powered work on Mac is becoming more privacy-focused as Perplexity introduces a mode that runs models and completes multi-step tasks entirely on supported Apple silicon devices. The feature allows users to work with private files and supported apps without sending personal data to the cloud, subject to their permissions.
The new mode is available through the Perplexity Mac app for Pro, Max and Enterprise subscribers. Users can control how tasks are processed and manage their AI credit usage.
Perplexity introduced Personal Computer for Mac in May, allowing its Computer tool to work with local files and native Mac apps. Last month, it launched Hybrid Compute, which combines cloud-based reasoning with on-device processing of private information. The latest option keeps the AI model, agent and task execution entirely on the Mac.
Users can choose local models such as Qwen 3.6 or PPLX Pro, a version of Qwen that Perplexity has further trained. They can also switch to Hybrid Compute when a task requires cloud access. For example, users reviewing an investment portfolio can process locally stored holdings and market data, then use cloud-based research for current market information. Cloud access can also be enabled for browser use and connected apps. Perplexity says its local orchestrator can access more than 15 frontier AI models for tasks that need advanced reasoning.
With permission, Computer can work across Notes, Messages, Mail and Numbers. It can combine information to prepare status updates, track pending tasks, organise meetings, draft client proposals using confidential notes and pricing details, and identify deadlines in messages and emails before preparing follow-up replies.
Perplexity says its code and tools operate in isolated sandbox environments that control access to local files and connected apps. The company says its cloud-based version follows the same security protocols.
Availability and setup
The fully local mode requires a supported Apple silicon Mac. Perplexity cites the new Mac mini with M6 and M5 Pro as examples of compatible devices and recommends at least 36GB of memory.
To get started, users need to install the latest Perplexity Mac app, download and set up a local model, and select fully local mode. Qwen 3.6 and PPLX Pro are available at launch.
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