Perplexity has unveiled Comet, an AI-powered web browser designed to revolutionise online interaction. This new browser aims to challenge Google Chrome's long-standing dominance by offering a conversational, task-oriented approach, integrating AI directly into the browsing experience for enhanced productivity and information discovery.
Perplexity's Bold Move into the Browser Wars
Perplexity AI, backed by Nvidia, has officially launched Comet, its first AI-powered web browser. This strategic move positions Perplexity as a direct competitor to established browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, as well as emerging AI-centric browsers from companies like The Browser Company and potentially OpenAI.
Comet distinguishes itself by moving beyond the traditional search-and-click model. Instead, it functions as a digital assistant, allowing users to interact with the internet through a conversational interface. This approach aims to streamline tasks and information gathering, making the browsing experience more intuitive and efficient.
Key Features of Comet
Comet is built on the same underlying technology as Google Chrome but integrates Perplexity's AI capabilities at its core. Key features include:
Integrated AI Search: Perplexity's AI search engine is pre-installed and set as the default, providing AI-generated summaries of search results.
Comet Assistant: A new AI agent that operates within the browser, capable of automating routine tasks such as:
Summarising emails and calendar events.
Managing tabs.
Navigating web pages on behalf of the user.
Contextual Interaction: Users can highlight text for instant explanations, explore related ideas, and even request counterpoints or missing perspectives on any topic without losing their current context.
Task Execution: The assistant can handle complex queries, compare information, schedule meetings, send emails, and summarise entire webpages.
Availability and Future Outlook
Comet is currently available to Perplexity Max subscribers, priced at $200 per month, with wider access rolling out gradually via an invite-only waitlist. The company plans to extend availability to more users in the coming months.
Perplexity's CEO, Aravind Srinivas, highlighted the company's rapid growth, noting that its search products handled 780 million queries in May and are experiencing over 20% month-over-month growth. This momentum, combined with Comet's innovative features, signals a significant shift in the competitive landscape of web browsing and AI-powered search.
While Comet offers a compelling vision for the future of browsing, concerns regarding AI accuracy and user privacy have been raised. Perplexity has been transparent about using browser data for targeted advertising, and the company has even expressed interest in acquiring Google Chrome should antitrust issues force a sale. The launch of Comet underscores a broader industry trend towards integrating AI deeply into web browsers, leveraging browsing history to provide personalised responses and suggestions.
