Perplexity now has its own always-on AI agent
What it does
Perplexity has launched “Teammates,” a feature that provides always-on AI agents running on dedicated virtual machines. These agents work persistently on ongoing projects, maintaining context and operating independently over time. The offering targets users with complex or continuous workloads that benefit from constant AI assistance.
Why it matters
Always-on AI agents are a growing segment in the AI market, designed to accelerate workflows by automating tasks with persistent memory and active project engagement. Perplexity’s entry puts pressure on competitors by bundling continuous agent availability into a single product. However, the $200 monthly price for the Max plan is significantly higher than similar services from OpenAI or Anthropic, creating a clear cost-performance trade-off for buyers.
Who it is for
This feature suits builders, operators, and teams that require AI support capable of managing long-term projects without repeated setup or manual input. Enterprises or power users who can justify the cost might see value in offloading complex, ongoing tasks to always-on virtual agents.
The catch
The hefty price tag at $200 per month narrows the market to high-value users or firms with budgets for advanced AI tooling. For smaller teams or startups seeking cost-efficient solutions, alternatives from OpenAI or Anthropic may be more appealing. Furthermore, the crowded landscape of always-on AI agents means differentiation needs to come from unique workflow integrations or superior performance.
What to watch next
Expect fine-tuning of pricing models and feature sets as Perplexity competes with established AI platforms. Watch for how integration of these agents into common work environments impacts adoption. Also observe if Perplexity expands Teammates’ capabilities to justify its premium or if competitors respond with more affordable persistent agent products.
AI Quick Briefs Editorial Desk