Perplexity just introduced a feature that allows different AI models to collaborate on the same task. Called Computer helplessnessit taps Gemini, Grok, and ChatGPT 5.2, depending on what you need. But computers can do more than just answer questions. It gets things done. The tool is available today for Perplexity Max subscribers on the desktop web and will soon be available to Enterprise Max users.
The system runs Opus 4.6 as the central reasoning engine. However, for certain orders the work is handed over to specialized models. Gemini conducts in-depth research by creating sub-agents. Grok steps in to be faster on easy tasks. ChatGPT 5.2 manages recall across long contexts and deep searches.
The computer also connects to Gmail, Outlook, GitHub, Slack, Notion and Salesforce. It can write documents, create slides, send emails and perform scheduled tasks while you are offline.
The name computer is a reference to history. In the 18th century, human computers divided complex work into parts. Today, Perplexity Computer does the same thing with software.
You can choose which models run your subtasks
Perplexity Computer is model agnostic, allowing the company to swap out motors as better ones come on the market. But you won’t be stuck with the default settings. The system lets you choose which models take on your subtasks.
This control is important because token budgets are becoming a real problem for people using AI in the workplace. If you know that one model will use up credits faster than another for a simple job, you can choose the cheaper or faster option.
The approach treats AI less like a single appliance and more like a toolbox. Grab Grok for quick answers, Veo 3.1 if you need videos, and Nano Banana for images – all in the same session.
Why running multiple models changes the game
The move challenges the idea that AI models are becoming interchangeable goods. Perplexity argues the opposite. Models specialize. Each Frontier model truly excels at different types of work, and an intelligent system should reflect that.
Imagine having a team instead of just one generalist. Gemini could sift through research better. Opus 4.6 takes on the heavy argumentation. ChatGPT 5.2 remembers more context from earlier in the conversation. Let them play to their strengths and the entire system will become more powerful.
Computers naturally chain skills together. A single prompt can trigger research, analysis, document creation, emailing, and scheduled follow-up. Do nothing between steps.
What the change means for your subscription
If you’re a Perplexity Max subscriber, you can try out the computing feature today. Enterprise Max users will get access soon. The launch gives you a reason to re-examine your subscription and test whether orchestrating multiple models actually saves time or money.
Keep an eye on how the model list changes. Perplexity has designed this to be flexible, so the range is likely to evolve as new models come onto the market. The real test is whether you notice the difference.
If the system selects a faster model for basic searches and a deeper model for research, your workflow should feel smoother without you having to think about it.
