# Evaluate Perplexity beyond its funding headline

> Check the sources behind an answer and compare results on questions you can independently verify.

Source: https://fullbytedeveloper.com/blog/perplexity-funding-and-search-evaluation
Originally posted: 2025-09-16
Published here: 2026-11-06

The Information reported in September 2025 that Perplexity secured $200 million in commitments at a $20 billion valuation, citing an unnamed source. [1]

## Evaluate the search experience separately

Perplexity's current Search page describes answers with citations and access to web results, uploaded files and connected applications. These are product features you can assess independently of investor interest. [2]

Start with a question whose answer you already know and a second question that requires recent evidence. Open the cited pages. Check whether each page supports the associated statement, whether the date is appropriate and whether the answer leaves out a relevant limitation.

For a work task, record what you had to correct before using the result. Repeat the same questions in the tools you are comparing. A convincing explanation is useful only when its evidence supports the decision you need to make.

Keep sensitive files out of a trial until you have reviewed the applicable account permissions and data terms.

## Sources

1. [The Information September financing report](https://www.theinformation.com/briefings/perplexity-finalizes-20-billion-valuation-round)
2. [Perplexity Search product description](https://www.perplexity.ai/en-GB/hub/products/search)

## Original posts

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