Tech
Perplexity Just Unleashed a New AI Tool That Can Build Dashboards and Spreadsheets From Your Ideas
With the launch of Perplexity Labs, the rising AI search engine shifts from just finding answers to actually building solutions
In a bold move to redefine the AI workspace, Perplexity — the startup search engine making waves as a serious Google challenger — has launched Perplexity Labs, an advanced tool that turns ideas into detailed reports, spreadsheets, dashboards, and even interactive web apps. The feature, now available to subscribers of Perplexity’s $20/month Pro plan, marks a major evolution from passive AI search to hands-on project creation.
Available on web, iOS, and Android (with desktop apps on the way), Perplexity Labs is designed to go beyond the typical chatbot response. According to the company, Labs “invests more time” — upwards of ten minutes — to process complex tasks using a suite of AI capabilities including web search, code execution, and data visualization. The goal? To deliver tangible results, whether it’s a business dashboard, a formatted spreadsheet, or a full-fledged mini app.
The timing is no coincidence. On the same day, Manus, another AI player, released a slide deck creation tool. The competition in generative AI is heating up — and Perplexity clearly doesn’t want to be left behind. Its new Labs feature is a part of a larger expansion strategy that includes the upcoming Comet web browser and a recent acquisition of Read.vc, a professional social network.
In a blog post, Perplexity said the tool is meant to assist with both “work and personal projects,” signaling an interest in becoming more than just a search engine. With Labs, users can now structure data, apply formulas, generate visuals, and download all associated files in one seamless workflow.
Industry observers are watching this rollout closely, especially as Perplexity reportedly seeks to raise up to $1 billion in fresh capital at a whopping $18 billion valuation. It’s clear that investors are betting big on tools that don’t just retrieve information — they generate meaningful outcomes.
Though early users have praised Labs for its versatility, it’s worth noting that no AI tool is perfect. While the idea of transforming curiosity into execution is compelling, the real-world accuracy and consistency of these outputs will determine whether Labs lives up to its promise. Still, with growing demand for enterprise-ready AI, Perplexity is well-positioned to grab a bigger share of the market.
As the AI race intensifies, one thing is certain — search is no longer just about answers. It’s about action.