Optus has announced a partnership with Perplexity to provide eligible new and existing mobile customers with a complimentary 12-month subscription to Perplexity Pro, valued at AUD $300.
The new offer allows Optus consumer and small business mobile customers to utilise Perplexity Pro's AI-powered search capabilities free of charge for one year. Subscribers will be able to ask questions ranging from travel planning to researching the best local dining options or generating content for business purposes.
A 2024 Deloitte Insights report indicated that 54% of Australians have used generative AI, compared with an Asia-Pacific average of 67%. Higher adoption figures were found in countries such as China and India, with the disparity largely attributed to younger demographics, including students and digital natives. Early adopters in these markets have reported benefits, including reduced work hours, new skill development opportunities, and more sustainable workloads.
Optus stated that it remains committed to improving access to AI for Australians and promoting its use as a means to foster digital connection. The company suggested that technological connections, when made accessible and inclusive, can be as empowering as interpersonal relationships for personal growth.
The collaboration with Perplexity aims to advance this approach by delivering an AI search platform that is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Perplexity Pro users can ask questions, conduct in-depth research, and access summaries and insights across multiple file formats, including PDFs, images, and spreadsheets.
Perplexity Pro's features include fast access to reliable information for research and learning, tools to streamline business and administrative tasks, unlimited searches using AI models from providers such as Perplexity, OpenAI, and Anthropic, as well as the ability to upload files for analysis. Subscribers also have granular control, allowing them to select different AI models based on their specific needs.
Anthony Shiner, Chief Customer Officer, Consumer at Optus, said, "AI shouldn't be reserved for experts or tech insiders. We believe that all Australians deserve access to the tools that can make their lives easier, more productive, and more informed. Whether it's helping with learning, work, or planning itineraries, AI is a game-changer. That's why we're partnering with AI trail blazer, Perplexity, to offer every eligible Optus mobile customer a full year of Perplexity Pro, at no cost - a $300 value, absolutely free. It's just one more way we're delivering real, tangible value to our customers."
Beginning from June, Optus Prepaid and Postpaid customers who are eligible and have opted in to receive marketing communications will be contacted via email or SMS to redeem their complimentary subscription. Customers can claim their offer until 11:59 AEST, 31 December 2025, through the Perplexity website.
Ryan Foutty, Vice President of Business at Perplexity, said, "We built Perplexity to make knowledge accessible to everyone. Our partnership with Optus allows us to reach a broader audience in Australia, helping users navigate the digital landscape with confidence."
The introduction of this initiative forms part of Optus's broader strategy to integrate AI for improved customer experiences. Optus confirmed that the Perplexity Pro offer is one element of its wider AI ecosystem and strategy and will also be made available to its employees.
Optus has also indicated that it continues to provide educational resources to families about generative AI and online safety, offering guidance on safe AI usage and providing conversation starters to help support digital wellbeing.
