Perplexity launches Sonar, an API for AI search

Perplexity releases Sonar, an API for AI search integration.

: Perplexity introduced Sonar, an API for integrating its AI search tools into applications, featuring real-time answers sourced from the internet. Two versions are available: the basic Sonar and a more advanced Sonar Pro. The base version is economical and quick, while Sonar Pro offers deeper functionality and twice the citations. Sonar Pro has surpassed leading AI models in factual correctness tests and comes after a $500 million funding round.

Perplexity has unveiled an API service named Sonar, enabling businesses to incorporate its generative AI search capabilities into their platforms. This service promises real-time responses by accessing the internet and esteemed sources, differentiating it from typical AI features that rely solely on training data.

The Sonar API is available in two options: the basic model, Sonar, offers affordability and speed, whereas the Sonar Pro option is designed for more intricate inquiries. The base version has flat-rate pricing based on searches and word count, while Sonar Pro provides more detailed answers and additional citations, with a varied cost structure.

Zoom is among the early adopters, integrating Sonar to enhance its video conferencing tool with an AI assistant offering real-time web-citation-based responses. Perplexity's new offering also serves as a revenue stream, priced as the market's cheapest AI search API, and follows substantial funding that values the company at $9 billion.