Perplexity rolls out $200/mo Max plan for power users
Perplexity just launched a $200-per-month subscription tier called Perplexity Max. It targets users who want the most from the startup’s AI tools. Subscribers get unlimited access to Perplexity’s spreadsheet and report generator, Labs. They also get early access to new features, including its upcoming AI-powered browser, Comet. Max users receive priority on the latest AI models like OpenAI o3-pro and Claude Opus 4.
The launch puts Perplexity in line with other AI firms offering premium plans. OpenAI started the trend with its $200 ChatGPT Pro. Google, Anthropic, and Cursor followed recently. 
Besides Max, Perplexity offers a $20/month Pro plan for consumers and a $40/month Enterprise Pro option per user. It plans to extend Max to Enterprise soon.
In 2024, Perplexity pulled in about $34 million from subscriptions, mainly from the $20 plan. But it’s still burning $65 million in cash, mostly on cloud fees and paying for AI models from OpenAI and Anthropic, according to financials seen by The Information.
Perplexity saw revenue growth over the past year, hitting an $80 million ARR in January. The startup reportedly discussed raising $500 million at a $14 billion valuation this May, but it’s unclear if the deal closed.
Competition in AI search is heating up. Google recently pushed its AI mode for search users. OpenAI has deepened ChatGPT’s search integration and is said to be considering its own browser.
Perplexity’s edge may be balancing partnerships with AI providers while competing fiercely in AI search. The cash from Max subscribers could boost its fight for market share.
