Getting started with AI search engines requires minimal setup. This guide walks through the process of configuring the most popular AI search tools.

Setting Up Perplexity AI

Visit perplexity.ai and create a free account using Google or email. The free tier allows 5 Pro searches per day. For unlimited Pro searches, subscribe to Perplexity Pro (20 USD/month). Install the browser extension for quick access via Cmd+Shift+Enter. The extension adds an AI search button to your browser toolbar.

Configure search focus in the settings: All (general web), Academic (scholarly papers), Writing (creative assistance), YouTube, Reddit, and News. Set your default search focus based on your typical use case.

Setting Up Microsoft Copilot

Copilot is built into Windows 11, Microsoft Edge, and Bing. On Windows, press Win+C to open Copilot. In Edge, click the Copilot icon in the top-right corner. For mobile, download the Bing or Copilot app. No account is needed for basic use, but signing in with a Microsoft account enables conversation history and persistent settings.

Setting Up Google AI Overviews

AI Overviews appear automatically in Google search results when you are signed into a Google account. To enable, go to your Google Search settings and ensure “AI Overviews” is turned on. AI Overviews appear for queries where Google determines the AI can add value. They cannot be manually triggered.

Browser Extension Setup

Install Perplexity’s browser extension for Chrome or Firefox. The extension adds a search box and keyboard shortcuts. Pin the extension to your toolbar for easy access. Configure the extension to replace your default search engine with AI search if desired.

Mobile App Setup

Perplexity and Copilot have mobile apps available on iOS and Android. Install the app and grant necessary permissions (microphone for voice input, notifications for updates). Add a home screen widget for one-tap access. Enable voice search for hands-free queries.

Summary

Setting up AI search engines takes just minutes. Create accounts for Perplexity or Copilot, install browser extensions for quick access, and configure your preferred search focus settings.