Perplexity AI, an Indian-founded AI-powered knowledge and search platform, has officially taken the number one spot on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. This milestone makes it the most downloaded and widely used AI app globally, surpassing tech giants like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini in popularity and daily engagement.
The Rise of Perplexity AI
Founded by Tamil Nadu-born entrepreneur Aravind Srinivas, Perplexity has quickly emerged as one of Silicon Valley’s most promising AI startups. Designed as a hybrid between a search engine, chatbot, and research assistant, the platform offers users a unified experience that blends information retrieval, conversational AI, and productivity tools all within a single interface.
Its growing popularity reflects a shift in user preference toward AI tools that combine accuracy with real-time responsiveness. Unlike traditional search engines, Perplexity generates direct, conversational answers supported by verifiable sources, making it a favorite among professionals, students, and researchers.
A Billionaire Founder from India
Aravind Srinivas, who co-founded Perplexity and serves as its CEO, recently became India’s youngest billionaire after debuting on the M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025. With an estimated net worth of ₹21,190 crore, Srinivas joins the ranks of India’s youngest and most successful entrepreneurs, including Zepto founders Kaivalya Vohra and Aadit Palicha, Ritesh Agarwal of OYO, and Trishneet Arora of TAC Security.
His rise signals a powerful moment for Indian innovators, marking the nation’s growing presence in the global AI ecosystem.
Redefining AI Search
Perplexity’s unique appeal lies in its simplicity and depth. It combines the efficiency of an AI chatbot with the precision of a search engine, allowing users to get quick, factual answers instead of long lists of links. The app’s success also stems from its transparent citation model, where users can verify the sources behind each answer.
As AI-driven search continues to evolve, Perplexity’s model challenges established players like Google Search, Gemini, and ChatGPT by prioritizing trust, usability, and contextual understanding over mere speed.
India’s Tech Ecosystem Rising
The platform’s success also highlights India’s growing influence in global technology innovation. Perplexity AI’s dominance on the app charts follows another major achievement for Indian tech the homegrown messaging app Arattai reaching the top of the Social Networking category on the App Store.
This wave of Indian-led platforms reflects a broader trend where domestic talent is not only powering global tech but also creating homegrown success stories that compete at the highest level.
The Road Ahead
Perplexity’s massive surge in daily downloads reportedly growing from 3,000 signups to 350,000 per day within just three days underscores the global appetite for smarter, faster, and more transparent AI tools. The platform’s founders are now focusing on expanding integrations, improving personalization, and building new productivity layers to cement its position as the leading AI search experience.
As the world turns toward AI for everything from learning to work, Perplexity’s rise from a small Silicon Valley startup to a global sensation is a testament to India’s growing footprint in the next era of technology.
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