Perplexity AI, the innovative conversational search engine founded by Aravind Srinivas, has announced an exciting initiative to support the academic community at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras). Students, faculty, and staff will now have free access to the Pro version of Perplexity AI, empowering them with enhanced research capabilities and advanced AI tools.
This generous offer from Dr. Srinivas, who is himself an alumnus of IIT Madras, reflects his commitment to giving back to the institution where he completed his B.Tech and M.Tech (Dual Degree) in Electrical Engineering. Graduated in 2017, he went on to complete his PhD at the University of California, Berkeley, and now leads Perplexity AI, which is currently valued at approximately $9 billion.
According to Prof V Kamakoti, the Director of IIT Madras, the Pro version of Perplexity combines real-time internet search capabilities with advanced large language models to deliver detailed answers backed by trusted sources. "Students around the world use Perplexity to kickstart their research, find high-quality sources in seconds, and study for examinations. With Pro, students can access the top AI models and unlimited Pro Searches. We are excited to partner with Dr. Aravind and Perplexity to offer this resource to all. The institute thanks Aravind for this generous gesture," said Prof Kamakoti.
The features of Perplexity Pro extend beyond basic responses, providing over 300 searches per day, access to multiple advanced AI models like GPT-4 and Claude-3, unlimited file uploads for analysis, and even API credits, making it possible for users to explore the vast potential of AI-driven research.
Dr. Srinivas reflected on his academic roots saying, "Knowledge is power, and one of its most powerful things is available to anyone who wants to achieve it. AI native search is changing how future generations learn and consume information online, and it is an honor to make Perplexity Pro available to all students at my alma mater." This collaboration highlights his desire to equip future innovators with cutting-edge resources.
Perplexity AI aims to empower not just students but also faculty members with tools necessary for advanced research and innovation. Through this initiative, the start-up seeks to instigate academic excellence and push the boundaries of what students can achieve with the right resources at their disposal.
Alongside offering free access to its advanced tools for IIT Madras, Perplexity AI is also on the lookout for talent to help expand its operations within India. Dr. Srinivas recently posted on LinkedIn, stating, "I am looking to recruit someone to work together on growing Perplexity in India. It will be fun and intense. You must be based in India and willing to travel and meet with strategic partners and institutions—scrappy startup mode." This move is not only indicative of the company's ambition but also its commitment to fostering local talent and developing AI solutions suited for the Indian market.
Just last month, Dr. Srinivas sat down with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to explore AI's transformative potential within the nation, discussing how technology can pave the way for remarkable innovations and solutions to the challenges faced today.
With initiatives like these, Perplexity AI is not only setting the stage for educational enhancement but also for the generation of groundbreaking ideas and products. The partnership with IIT Madras is likely to create waves within the academic and tech communities, illuminating the path for aspiring researchers and entrepreneurs eager to make their mark.
The offering of free access to Perplexity Pro is seen not just as an investment in individual futures, but as part of a larger vision for the development of responsible AI and its impactful application across various sectors. It is a step toward equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools they need to succeed, innovate, and drive progress.