Posted by New Delhi: In a landmark move blending telecommunications with generative AI, Indian telecom Bharti Airtel has announced a strategic partnership with Perplexity, an AI-powered search and answer engine. Under this partnership, Airtel will provide its entire customer base of more than 360 million users with a free 12-month subscription to Perplexity Pro.
This partnership marks Perplexity’s first collaboration with an Indian telecom provider, and gives Airtel’s mobile, Wi-Fi, and DTH users access to advanced AI tools designed to enhance search, learning, productivity, and creativity.
Perplexity, often described as the next generation of search engines, delivers real-time, accurate, and conversational answers instead of a simple list of web pages. Its Pro version typically priced at ₹17,000 per year includes additional features such as access to leading AI models (like GPT-4.1 and Claude), deep research tools, image generation, file analysis, and Perplexity Labs, a creative sandbox for users.
All Airtel customers can claim their free Pro subscription via the Airtel Thanks app, making this one of the largest AI subscription rollouts in India to date.
“We’re thrilled to announce a game-changing partnership with Perplexity, bringing their cutting-edge AI capabilities exclusively for Airtel customers. This collaboration will bring the powerful and real-time knowledge tool for millions of users at their fingertips, at no extra cost,” said Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman and MD of Bharti Airtel.
“This first of its kind Gen-AI partnership in India is focused on helping our customers navigate the emerging trends in the digital world with confidence and ease,” added Vittal.
“This partnership is an exciting way to make accurate, trustworthy, and professional-grade AI accessible to more people in India—whether a student, working professional, or managing a household. With Perplexity Pro, users get a smarter, easier way to find information, learn, and get more done,” Aravind Srinivas, Cofounder and CEO of Perplexity commented on the partnership.
Aravind Srinivas, Co-founder and CEO of Perplexity, emphasized the broader goal of the partnership: “This is an exciting way to make accurate, trustworthy, and professional-grade AI accessible to more people in India — from students and professionals to homemakers. Perplexity Pro provides a smarter, easier way to find information, learn, and get more done.”
The rollout also underscores Airtel’s broader ambition to integrate cutting-edge digital tools into daily life. Use cases range from academic research and household planning to customised travel itineraries and professional productivity – all powered by natural-language interaction with AI.
With this offering, Airtel positions itself at the forefront of India’s AI revolution, bringing powerful tools directly into the hands of millions.