On iOS, Perplexity AI Launches an AI Voice Assistant

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas revealed on 24 April that AI's voice assistant would be available on its iOS app. Perplexity presents a competitive alternative to Apple's redesigned Siri assistant, which is powered by Apple Intelligence.

Previously, the update was only available to Android users. While announcing the news, Srinivas stated on X that anyone may ask it to play anything, including favourite music, podcasts, and difficult-to-find videos.

For example, playing the video of Katy Perry kissing the ground after falling from the rocket, the Donald Trump version of Baby Shark, or the podcast in which Andreessen talks with Lex about browsers.

Additionally, it can send emails using Apple Mail or set up meetings using Apple Calendar, though Srinivas notes that the functionality is still a little "janky". Furthermore, the AI assistant can arrange a cab trip from Uber and search for a restaurant you want to visit.

How to Operate the New Feature?

Users can click the microphone button to begin speaking as soon as the program opens. Even when they are not using the app, users can still communicate with the voice assistant. Furthermore, unlike Apple Intelligence, which is limited to iPhone 15 Pro models and later, the software is compatible with slightly older iPhone models, such as the iPhone 13.

 The assistant still lacks ChatGPT's ability to access the phone camera and provide context for a photo. Additionally, it lacks the ability to set alarms, silence notifications, or access iPhone settings.

Additionally, Srinivas told users that after turning on voice mode, it takes three to four seconds to connect with the assistant; however, they are aiming to reduce this time. He pointed out that, similar to how people use Siri, he can set his iPhone's action button to Perplexity Voice Mode so he can utilise this without opening the programme.

According to recent sources, as Apple reorganises its leadership, the new Siri has been further postponed until 2026.

More and More big Companies Opting for AI

Big businesses are setting the example as organisations begin to implement administrative reforms intended to create future value from emerging AI. Organisations are starting to take actions that have a direct impact on their bottom line, such as reworking procedures as they use gen AI and assigning senior leaders to crucial positions like managing AI governance, according to the most recent McKinsey Global Survey on AI.

The results also demonstrate that companies are hiring for new AI-related positions and retraining staff to take part in AI deployment as they attempt to reduce an increasing number of gen-AI-related hazards. Businesses with yearly sales of at least $500 million are evolving faster than smaller ones.