Perplexity has unveiled Sonar, a new API service enabling enterprises and developers to embed its generative AI search tools into their applications. Designed to enhance AI-driven search with real-time internet connectivity, Sonar addresses the limitations of traditional generative AI models that rely solely on training data. By drawing answers from trusted, up-to-date sources, Sonar aims to optimize factual accuracy and authoritative responses.
The Sonar API is available in two tiers: the base version, which is cost-effective and faster, and Sonar Pro, designed for handling complex queries with advanced functionality. The base version charges $5 for every 1,000 searches, alongside a $1 fee per 750,000 input or output words (equivalent to roughly 1 million tokens). Sonar Pro, offering more in-depth answers and double the citations, costs $5 per 1,000 searches, $3 for every 750,000 input words, and $15 for every 750,000 output words. This tier leverages multiple searches per user prompt, providing enriched responses but potentially introducing variable pricing.
Perplexity emphasizes Sonar’s affordability, asserting it as the market’s most cost-efficient search API. The service’s pricing strategy positions it competitively in an industry that has seen declining API costs for AI tools over the past year. Additionally, the Sonar API’s customization feature allows enterprises to tailor the sources that the AI search engine references, making it a versatile tool for various applications.
Zoom is among the early adopters of Sonar, using it to power an AI assistant within its video conferencing platform. This integration allows the assistant to deliver real-time answers backed by web citations without users needing to exit their video calls. Such applications highlight Sonar’s potential to seamlessly integrate into existing platforms, expanding Perplexity’s AI search capabilities beyond its website and app.
The introduction of Sonar also represents a strategic revenue growth avenue for Perplexity. The startup currently generates revenue through a subscription model offering unlimited access to its AI search engine and premium features. However, with its new API, Perplexity diversifies its offerings and taps into the lucrative enterprise and developer markets. Sonar Pro’s advanced capabilities reportedly outperformed leading models from Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic in factual accuracy tests, positioning it as a competitive choice for demanding use cases.
Perplexity’s financial health reflects its potential for growth. With annual recurring revenue estimated between $5 million and $10 million, the company has demonstrated steady progress for a startup of its scale. Its recent $73.6 million funding round, which valued the company at approximately $520 million, underscores investor confidence in its vision and market positioning. As Perplexity continues to innovate, Sonar is poised to play a significant role in enhancing its market presence and financial trajectory.
By introducing Sonar, Perplexity reaffirms its commitment to providing cutting-edge, factual, and scalable generative AI solutions. This launch not only strengthens its competitive edge but also positions it as a key player in shaping the future of AI-driven search technologies.