Perplexity Windows App is FINALLY HERE!

Key takeaways:

• The Perplexity Windows app is basically the web version in a desktop wrapper.
• You get instant access with a keyboard shortcut and voice dictation.
• No special features yet, but it runs in the background for quick chats.

So, Perplexity just dropped its Windows app and I had to check it out. If you’re wondering if it’s anything different from the web version, I’m here to break it down for you. I’ll share how it works, what’s cool (and what’s not), and a few tips if you want to try it yourself.

Downloading and installing the Perplexity Windows app is simple but nothing fancy

The download is pretty quick, just 78 MB, and the install process is your standard Windows affair. I did notice you have to grab it from the official site, not the Microsoft Store. That feels a bit old-school, but it works. If you’re new to installing apps outside the store, you might want to check your Windows security settings just to be safe.

The desktop app is just the web version in a new coat

Once you launch it, you’ll see the Perplexity interface you already know. Seriously, it’s almost identical to the web version. So if you’ve used Perplexity in your browser, don’t expect surprises. You’ll log in with your usual account, and you’re good to go.

The shortcut feature is the main thing that makes it feel like an app

This is where things get a little more interesting. You can hit Ctrl + I and pop up a chat window from anywhere on your computer. That means you don’t have to switch tabs or open your browser. Just hit the keys, ask a question, and Perplexity is right there. It runs in the background, so you can call it up any time. That’s pretty handy if you’re multitasking or need quick answers while you’re working.

No access to your screen, but you can upload screenshots

I was curious if the app could see what’s on my screen. Nope. Perplexity can’t see or access your screen directly. But you can still take a screenshot (use Windows + Shift + S) and paste it into the chat. The app will upload your image and you can ask questions about it, like “Where is this location?” or anything else visual. If you’re not familiar with Windows screenshot shortcuts, here’s a quick guide.

Voice dictation is here, but it’s not full voice mode

There’s a dictation icon so you can speak your questions instead of typing. It’s not the same as the voice mode on the mobile app, though. You can’t have a back-and-forth conversation with your voice—this is just regular dictation. Still, if you hate typing, it’s a nice touch.

You can use different AI models, but the experience is the same

You can pick from GPT, Claude, Gemini, Groq, and other models right from the app. But no matter which one you use, it all feels like the web version. You’re just chatting in a desktop window instead of a browser tab.

The app is super basic right now, but that could change

Honestly, there’s nothing exclusive or special in the Windows app yet. It’s just the web version, but you can call it up with a shortcut and use dictation. Still, having it run in the background is useful for people who want instant access. If you want to keep your desktop organized, you might want to hide your desktop icons for a cleaner look while using the app.

What could make the Perplexity Windows app better?

• Integration with Windows notifications for answers.
• Full voice mode like the mobile app.
• Microsoft Store release for easier updates and security.
• More desktop-only features, like floating windows or clipboard integration.

Quick tips for using Perplexity on Windows

• Use Ctrl + I to open the chat window from anywhere.
• Take screenshots with Windows + Shift + S and paste them into the app.
• Try dictation if you want to speak your questions.
• The app runs in the background, so you don’t have to keep it open all the time.
• If you’re running low on space, clean up your PC before installing more apps.

FAQs

How do I download the Perplexity Windows app?

Just go to the official Perplexity site and download the Windows version. You can’t get it from the Microsoft Store yet.

Does the app have any features the web version doesn’t?

Right now, the only real difference is the Ctrl + I shortcut and voice dictation. Everything else is the same as the web.

Can Perplexity see what’s on my screen?

No, it can’t see your screen. But you can upload screenshots and ask questions about them.

Does it support voice conversations like the mobile app?

Nope, it’s just dictation for now. Full voice mode isn’t here yet.

Will there be more features in the future?

That’s the hope! For now, it’s pretty basic, but more desktop features could come later.

If you want more Windows tips, like how to speed up your computer or how to make apps run at startup, check out my other guides. Got questions about Perplexity or want to see more tutorials? Drop a comment or subscribe for updates! 🚀