Can an M4 Mac run Perplexity Computer locally?
M4 is current-generation Apple Silicon, but entry configurations start below 36GB. If you are buying an M4 Mac for local AI, the memory option you tick matters more than the chip.
The M4 buying trap
It is natural to assume a brand-new Mac automatically qualifies. It does not. Entry M4 configurations have been sold with memory in the teens and twenties of gigabytes - all below the announced 36GB requirement for Perplexity Computer local mode. The newest chip with 16GB fails the gate; an older chip with 48GB passes it.
How to buy an M4 Mac that qualifies
Choose a configuration with 36GB or more unified memory at purchase - in practice that often means stepping up to a Pro-tier chip configuration or selecting a higher memory option, such as 48GB where offered. Because memory cannot be added later, this decision is permanent for the life of the machine. Verify the live configuration options on the seller's page at the time you buy; line-ups change.
What about M5?
The same rule will apply to any newer Apple Silicon generation, including M5 machines as they appear: Apple Silicon plus 36GB or more unified memory. Judge every new Mac by its configured memory, not its launch year. Our checker includes M5 as a generic option on exactly that basis.
Frequently asked questions
Does a new M4 Mac automatically qualify?
No. Entry M4 configurations can have less than 36GB unified memory. Only configurations at 36GB or more meet the announced requirement.
Can I add memory to an M4 Mac later?
No. Unified memory is fixed at purchase on all Apple Silicon Macs.
Will M5 Macs follow the same rule?
On the announced requirements, yes: Apple Silicon plus at least 36GB unified memory, whatever the generation.