Build Anything with Perplexity, Here’s How

David Andre introduces Perplexity, an AI tool that enhances web search capabilities by integrating a large language model (LLM) with web search functionality. He contrasts Perplexity with other AI tools like GPT, highlighting Perplexity's ability to scour multiple websites for comprehensive results. David emphasizes the flexibility of Perplexity, which allows users to choose different LLMs for various tasks, such as code generation and debugging. He also mentions the tool's appeal to programmers and the substantial value of its paid version, offering a discount link for viewers. The video's aim is to guide viewers through building a project using Perplexity, starting from an idea generation phase where David lets the AI suggest project types.

The video transitions into a practical demonstration where David decides to build a productivity Chrome extension. He uses Perplexity to brainstorm and refine the idea into a concrete plan. The AI suggests a distraction-blocking extension that prompts users to choose between visiting a distracting site and their task list. David, assuming no programming background, engages Perplexity to guide him through setting up the project in VS Code, creating necessary files like 'manifest.json', and writing the initial code. The process showcases Perplexity's ability to provide step-by-step instructions for coding, even for beginners.

David continues the development process by focusing on the user interface of the Chrome extension. He discusses the design options provided by Perplexity, which include a popup and sidebar notifications. The AI tool assists in generating HTML and JavaScript code for these features. Despite some initial simplicity in design, David emphasizes the importance of functionality over aesthetics. He also highlights the ease of using Perplexity to write and debug code, even for someone with limited programming knowledge.

The video delves into the testing phase of the Chrome extension. David outlines the steps for loading the extension in Chrome and enabling developer mode. He details the process of interacting with the extension and verifying its functionality. Despite initial failures, David uses Perplexity to troubleshoot and refine the extension. The AI provides insights and code adjustments to ensure the extension works as intended, demonstrating the tool's utility in debugging and improving projects.

David addresses a key functionality issue where the extension needs to work specifically for certain websites like Twitter and x.com. He uses Perplexity to analyze the project, identify the problem, and implement changes. The AI guides him through modifying the JavaScript and CSS files to ensure the extension only activates when visiting specific sites. The video illustrates the iterative process of development, where testing, analysis, and refinement are crucial for achieving the desired outcome.

In the final stages of development, David focuses on perfecting the extension's user experience. He discusses the need for the extension to automatically take up the entire screen when visiting certain sites, preventing access to distractions. With Perplexity's help, he makes the necessary code adjustments to the Manifest file and CSS to create a full-screen overlay. The video concludes with a successful test of the extension, showcasing its effectiveness in promoting productivity.

David concludes the video by reflecting on his experience building the Chrome extension using Perplexity. He expresses satisfaction with the final product and his intention to use it personally. He also emphasizes the transformative power of AI tools like Perplexity in enabling non-programmers to create complex projects. The video ends with a call to action for viewers to subscribe and a promise to share the extension's code, highlighting the accessibility and empowerment AI brings to creative problem-solving.