AI search company Perplexity has recently launched a brand-new "Labs" feature, marking a significant update for professional users. This major move signals the company's transition from being just a search tool to a comprehensive AI platform, as it aims to compete with rivals like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude.
Complex Project Processing Beyond Time Constraints
Different from Perplexity's previous focus on quick "research" mode, the newly introduced Lab mode offers distinct technical advantages:
- Extended Runtime: Can operate independently for more than ten minutes, providing ample processing time for complex projects.
- Multi-function Integration: Capable of performing web searches, running code, and creating files among various tasks, offering a truly one-stop solution.
- Diverse Outputs: Supports creating reports, tables, dashboards, and even basic web applications for complex project types.
User Experience Enhanced Across the Board
In terms of user interface, the Lab function also brings substantial improvements: users can conveniently view all output results through the "Assets" tab or choose to display applications directly in the project interface. To help users get started quickly, Perplexity also provides rich example templates in its project library.
Strategic Transformation in Response to Market Pressure
The launch of this feature reflects the market reality Perplexity faces. The company once held a leading position in the AI search field, but the rapid development of comprehensive AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude has significantly weakened Perplexity's competitive edge.
By launching the Lab function, Perplexity is attempting to reposition itself as a more comprehensive AI work platform rather than just a search tool.
Currently, Perplexity Labs is already available on the web version and iOS platforms, providing complete functionality for mobile users. The company stated that Mac and Windows desktop versions will soon be released, which is expected to further expand the user base.
It’s worth noting that the Lab function is currently only available to Perplexity Professional users. This strategy not only reflects the company's emphasis on high-value users but also provides a new growth point for its revenue model.