Perplexity Defaults to GPT-5.5 for Computer, Adds Personal CFO and Mac Desktop Access

Perplexity has upgraded its Computer agent platform by making GPT-5.5 the default orchestration model for Pro and Max subscribers. This model is designed to handle complex, long-running tasks like research, multi-step browsing, and agent workflows more efficiently while maintaining grounded execution. Alongside the model update, Perplexity launched Personal Computer for Mac, a desktop app that securely connects local files, apps, and the Comet browser to Computer. Users can now ask agents to work across local files, summarize Comet research tabs, or manage documents, all with granular permission controls. The app works on any Mac, including Mac Mini, and is available to all users.

Personal CFO receives a major upgrade: users can now connect up to 30 financial accounts (up from 5) and fetch up to 500 assets per account (up from 200). New inputs for annual income and risk tolerance allow Computer to tailor budgeting, portfolio analysis, and long-term planning advice. For enterprise users, Perplexity added finance data connectors for licensed datasets from Morningstar, PitchBook, FactSet, Daloopa, and Carbon Arc, enabling teams to build investment briefs and sector reports directly within Computer. Admin credit controls and one-time purchase support improve team usage management. Notification intelligence was also improved to alert users only when attention or approval is needed.