The team at Perplexity has launched its AI-powered web browser Comet to its Max subscribers, while other users can join a waitlist for invite-only access. Featuring an integrated AI assistant that automatically schedules meetings, conducts in-depth research, and compares product pricing, Comet has the potential to change the online browsing experience.
Perplexity’s post announcing the browser’s launch reads, in part: “We built Comet to let the internet do what it has been begging to do: to amplify our intelligence.”
Comet browser’s key features
Perplexity’s team built their reputation with an AI-driven search engine, so the development of a web browser isn’t that big a leap for them. While they’re committed to updating and optimizing their web browser over time, Comet already includes some innovative features.
For starters, Comet was strategically built with agentic AI in mind. Not only does it accept search queries via voice or text, but it also plays an active role in the browsing experience. It helps you comprehend the content you’re reading, ask relevant questions about that content, complete specific tasks, and remember any new information you’ve learned along the way.
Perplexity’s new web browser was also built on a foundation of privacy. Data is stored locally when using Comet, and Perplexity specifically avoids personal information when training its AI model. This makes Comet a great option for those who value anonymity when browsing the internet.
Comet browser’s availability
The new web browser officially entered its beta testing stage in May, but the initial rollout was limited to Apple Silicon Mac systems. Perplexity AI expanded the beta program in June to include the Windows OS.
Comet is currently only available to Perplexity Max subscribers, which is priced at $200 per month or $2,000 per year. Perplexity stated that invite-only access will roll out to its waitlist over the summer, and that new users will receive a limited number of invites to share.
More must-read AI coverage
- SS&C Intralinks DealCentre AI vs. Datasite: Which platform is built for the future of dealmaking?
- SS&C Intralinks FundCentre AI vs. Juniper Square: Which platform better supports modern private markets fund managers?
- Why Data, Not Models, Determines AI Success
- The Rise of the AI-Native Factory: How Physical AI Is Transforming Manufacturing
A free version of Comet will also be included with the free tier of the Perplexity AI service. Exact timing for Comet’s free version has yet to be announced.
Perplexity AI is already usable on Mac and Windows computers. Additional platforms will be supported as Comet expands to include more customers. Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas said the Android version is progressing “ahead of schedule.”
The next generation of web browsing
Comet will eventually compete with industry-leading platforms like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and others.
Although some web browsers already support AI through the use of third-party integrations, add-ons, and extensions, few have been developed so far with an AI-first approach, like Comet. Some AI-focused browsers include Opera’s Neon, Norton’s Neo, and The Browser Company’s Dia. This, coupled with the backing of names like NVIDIA, Jeff Bezos, and SoftBank, makes Perplexity’s new browser a real force to be reckoned with in this space.
Read TechRepublic’s recent interview with a Firefox VP about how browsers are evolving in the age of AI.