Perplexity AI tops app charts, outpaces ChatGPT and Gemini

Perplexity, an AI-driven knowledge platform founded in India, has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the top position on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. This success has positioned it ahead of well-established players like ChatGPT and Gemini, highlighting the platform's impressive growth. The brainchild of Aravind Srinivas, who hails from Tamil Nadu, Perplexity has rapidly become one of Silicon Valley's most talked-about startups. Its success is attributed to a strategic vision that effectively combines search capabilities, chat functionalities, and productivity tools into a single interface. This unique approach allows Perplexity to function not just as a search engine, but also as a chatbot and a research assistant, making it a versatile tool for users. In a testament to his entrepreneurial success, Srinivas has made headlines as India’s youngest billionaire, featured in the M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 with a net worth of ₹21,190 crore. His entry into this elite group of young Indian entrepreneurs includes notable figures like Kaivalya Vohra and Aadit Palicha from Zepto, as well as Ritesh Agarwal of OYO and others. This achievement signifies a notable transformation in a country renowned for its tech talent, moving beyond its traditional role as a service hub. The rise of Perplexity AI to the number one spot in app rankings underscores the potential of Indian startups to innovate and disrupt established markets. Additionally, in a related success story, India’s homegrown messaging platform Arattai has also reached a significant milestone, becoming the leading app in the Social Networking category on the App Store. Developed by Zoho Corporation, Arattai has experienced explosive growth, with daily user sign-ups soaring from 3,000 to an astonishing 350,000 in just three days. This surge reflects a growing demand for local digital solutions, showcasing the dynamic nature of India's tech landscape.