Telkomsel's latest bundle marries high-speed data with premium AI search

Telkomsel has launched Indonesia’s first AI-and-connectivity bundle through a partnership with San Francisco–based startup Perplexity. The initiative reflects a growing industry shift from offering raw data pipes to delivering smarter digital experiences, aiming to position Telkomsel as a front-runner in putting AI within everyday reach.

The tie-up introduces bundled plans that combine Telkomsel’s mobile internet with a subscription to Perplexity Pro, the paid tier of the answer engine known for its real-time, citation-backed research capabilities. It’s a practical proposition: more than just search, users get a mobile-powered intelligence companion capable of running deep queries, managing documents, and even generating images.

“This collaboration underscores Telkomsel’s commitment to dependable connectivity and empowering AI solutions,” said Wong Soon Nam, chief strategy and planning officer at Telkomsel. “By pairing our nationwide network with Perplexity’s advanced AI, we deliver a seamless experience, on‑the‑go access to accurate, personalised insights - anytime, anywhere, enabling customers to engage with information more intelligently and stay one step ahead in the digital era.”

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Founded in 2022, Perplexity has swiftly grown from being a tech curiosity to a mainstream alternative to conventional search. Its core product draws live data from credible sources, offers in-line citations, and can handle everything from academic research to business analysis - a functionality that complements Indonesia’s appetite for mobile-first digital productivity.

June Morita, general manager for APAC at Perplexity, said, “We are proud to join hands with Telkomsel to make Perplexity’s services more accessible to millions across Indonesia. This partnership is a significant step in expanding our presence in Southeast Asia and highlights our shared commitment to empowering communities by bringing the benefits of AI into both the workplace and everyday life.”

While AI has long been the domain of the tech-savvy, Telkomsel’s bundles are designed to integrate it into mainstream use. For enterprise customers, the bundles aim to drive operational efficiency through enhanced research and data analysis tools. Starting at IDR 35,000 (US$2.15), prepaid enterprise plans include a SIM pack and three months of Perplexity Pro. Meanwhile, postpaid Halo+ AI packages, from IDR 100,000 (US$6.14), offer a full year’s subscription alongside entertainment perks.

For retail consumers, Telkomsel has embedded Perplexity access as part of its popular SIMPATI and Halo+ plans. Users can opt into the service as a digital lifestyle benefit or enjoy it as part of their data plan, with bundles starting from IDR 35,000 (US$2.15) for prepaid and IDR 80,000 (US$4.91) for postpaid customers.

A smartphone bundle also allows customers to access Perplexity Pro for a year, along with shopping vouchers – a nod to the increasingly intertwined nature of eCommerce, telco services, and personal tech.

The rollout comes as Telkomsel marks its 30th year, coinciding with a national push toward digital transformation. With its extensive 4G/LTE network, growing 5G footprint, and IndiHome broadband infrastructure, the telco is uniquely positioned to democratise AI access in areas beyond Jakarta’s city centre - targeting students, micro-businesses, health workers, and public service agencies alike.

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