Perplexity for Mac Adds Local MCP Support for Smarter, Privacy-First AI Workflows

Perplexity AI has rolled out MCP support in its Mac desktop app, enabling users to integrate local macOS tools like Apple Notes, Calendar, Finder, and Terminal directly into AI conversations. The update, version 2.250710.0, was released on July 22, 2025, and introduces local Model Context Protocol functionality through a helper app, PerplexityXPC. This app helps bypass sandbox limitations while maintaining user control and system-level security.

The move brings Perplexity closer to the broader industry adoption of MCP, which has been embraced by companies like Google, Salesforce, and Zapier. With local MCP, users can issue context-rich AI commands that interact directly with their personal files and applications without sending data to the cloud. Support for remote MCP is expected to roll out soon, starting with Pro and Max subscribers.

By building this bridge between conversational AI and system tools, Perplexity is targeting tech-savvy users who want more than static web answers. It positions Perplexity's Mac client as not just an AI assistant but an operational layer for personalized productivity. The integration appeals especially to users concerned with data privacy, as the local MCP setup ensures sensitive context stays on-device. While MCP connectors are open-source and vary in reliability, Perplexity advises cautious deployment to maintain performance and trust.