Browser Available To Limited Users
Perplexity has officially launched Comet, its first AI-powered web browser, taking a direct shot at Google Search and Chrome. The browser is available first to subscribers of Perplexity’s $200/month Max plan and early invitees from a waitlist.
AI-Powered from the Ground Up
At the heart of Comet is Perplexity’s own AI search engine, which is pre-installed and set as default. This engine provides AI-generated summaries, placing answers ahead of traditional links. The move places Perplexity’s core service directly inside the browser experience.
With Comet, the company is attempting to cut out Google Chrome completely, giving users a direct line to its AI systems.
Comet Assistant Joins the Browser Battle
Comet ships with Comet Assistant, a new AI agent embedded into the browser. Users can open a sidebar on any webpage, allowing the assistant to read and interact with the content.
This assistant can:
- Summarize emails and calendar entries
- Navigate websites for the user
- Manage open tabs
- Respond to queries about page content
Taking Aim at Google’s Dominance
The launch of Comet signals Perplexity’s intention to go beyond search and move toward becoming a full AI-powered operating system, according to CEO Aravind Srinivas.
In his own words, controlling the browser could lead to “infinite retention.” By owning how users browse and search, Perplexity aims to expand usage without relying on Google’s ecosystem.
Comet enters the space at a time when other players are exploring similar paths. OpenAI is reportedly working on a browser too, and The Browser Company’s AI-powered Dia debuted just last month. Google itself has started rolling out AI tools across Chrome, indicating it sees the shift coming.
High Stakes in a Crowded Browser Market
Despite its ambition, Comet is up against giants. Chrome and Safari dominate the browser landscape. Persuading users to switch browsers remains harder than getting them to try a new search engine.
Still, Perplexity’s 780 million search queries in May and 20% monthly growth show there’s strong momentum behind the company.
If enough users sign up for Comet and rely on it daily, Perplexity could start to shift browser habits — one AI task at a time.
