Perplexity AI: Agentic AI in a Sandbox with 19 Models

OpenClaw has shown the way – both positively and negatively: Unleashed agentic AI demonstrates how much more benefit can be derived from such an assistant if it is given more data. On the other hand, the catastrophic security concept revealed the dangers lurking behind it. Now, Perplexity AI has presented Perplexity Computer, which aims to bridge the gap between the advantages of different AI models and the enhanced capabilities offered by tools like Claude Cowork, which have extended file access. At the same time, Perplexity aims to be much safer because everything takes place cloud-based in a sandbox that functions like a standalone computer.

For the AI company, which has made a name for itself primarily with its search function, this step is a big one. Perplexity AI calls it the “Personal Computer of 2026.” They have been secretly working on the next big thing. Initially, Perplexity Computer will only be available to subscribers of the most expensive Max plan, which costs $200 per month. However, Pro and Enterprise users are expected to follow soon. There is no app version.

19 different AI models

Perplexity Computer orchestrates a total of 19 different AI models from various providers. Tasks are to be assigned dynamically. In the basic setup, Claude Opus 4.6 is responsible for orchestration and coding tasks, Gemini handles deep research, Grok is used for small tasks, and GPT-5.2 for those with larger contexts. Users can change these assignments as they see fit. Perplexity AI announces over 400 app integrations. However, local system access is not provided.

With this, Perplexity seeks its advantage in the role of an agentic intermediary. Users should not have to deal with the intricacies of prompting for different models. At the same time, the promise is that using different models instead of just one leads to better results. Users can also leave the AI to itself. Workflows could run autonomously for hours, weeks, or, theoretically, even months without user intervention.

Token-based billing

As with OpenClaw, whose autonomy quickly leads to high bills, such massive AI deployment also comes at a price in the case of Perplexity Computer. Flat fees are therefore no longer sufficient for the new service. For the first time, Perplexity will also bill in tokens. Max users receive 10,000 credits per month included. At launch, there are an additional 20,000 that expire after 30 days. And users will be able to set spending limits to prevent costs from exploding.

(mki)