Skip to main content
The Perplexity app for iPhone and iPad requires iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 or later. If your device runs iOS 16 or iOS 17, update it to keep using the app.

Who this affects

If your iPhone or iPad runs iOS 16 or iOS 17, you cannot install or update the Perplexity app from the App Store. Older versions of the app also stop working over time. When your version is no longer supported, the app asks you to update it before you can continue.
Keep both your device software and the Perplexity app up to date. An outdated version of the app can stop working even on a supported version of iOS.

How to update iOS and the Perplexity app

  1. Back up your iPhone or iPad, then connect it to power and Wi-Fi.
  2. Open Settings > General > Software Update.
  3. If an update is available, tap Download and Install, then follow the onscreen instructions.
  4. Open the App Store, find the Perplexity app, and update it to the latest version.
For more detail, see Apple’s guide Update your iPhone or iPad.

How to verify it worked

Settings > General > Software Update shows iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 or later, and the Perplexity app opens without asking you to update.

If your device cannot update to iOS 18

iOS 18 runs on iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and later models. To check your model, see Apple’s lists of iPhone models compatible with iOS 18 and iPad models compatible with iPadOS 18. If your device cannot run iOS 18, use Perplexity on another device, such as in a browser on your computer. See Supported Browsers for Perplexity Web App.

Frequently asked questions

Will I lose my Sessions if I update?

No. Your Sessions and Projects are saved to your Perplexity account, not to your device. Sign in with the same account to find them.

Does my subscription keep renewing if I cannot use the app?

Yes. A subscription bought through the App Store keeps renewing until you cancel it. See Canceling a Subscription.

Do I need to update the Mac app too?

Yes. Keep the Perplexity app for Mac up to date as well. If you still use the older Mac App Store app, see Upgrade from the Old App.

Need more help?

Contact us via Help > Contact Support. Pro subscribers can access live chat in Settings.
Last modified on November 9, 2026