Perplexity launches Comet, an AI-powered web browser

Published: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Perplexity Launches Comet, an AI-Powered Browser, Challenging Google's Dominance

Perplexity, an AI search startup, has entered the web browser market with the launch of Comet. This new browser, currently available to subscribers of Perplexity's premium plan and a select group of invitees, integrates the company's AI search engine as the default. This feature provides users with AI-generated summaries of search results directly within the browser.

Comet also introduces the Comet Assistant, an AI agent designed to automate tasks within the browser. The assistant can summarize emails and calendar events, manage tabs, and navigate webpages on behalf of users. Users can access the assistant via a sidecar feature, enabling it to analyze the content of any webpage and answer questions about it.

The launch of Comet represents a significant move for Perplexity, particularly as the company aims to directly engage users without relying on Google Chrome, the current market leader. The company's CEO has emphasized the importance of Comet in the ongoing competition with Google.

However, Perplexity faces a competitive landscape. Other AI-powered browsers, such as Dia from The Browser Company, are already in the market, and there are reports that OpenAI is considering launching its own browser.

Perplexity's success may hinge on its ability to attract users to switch browsers. The company reports substantial search query volume and month-over-month growth. While the AI assistant shows promise in simplifying routine tasks, it struggles with more complex requests, sometimes providing inaccurate information.

BNN's Perspective: The launch of Comet highlights the evolving landscape of web browsing, with AI playing an increasingly central role. While the concept is promising, the reliance on AI assistants raises concerns about data privacy and the accuracy of information. Perplexity faces a challenging task in convincing users to switch browsers, especially given the existing competition and the need to address the limitations of AI-powered assistants.

Keywords: Perplexity, Comet, AI browser, AI search, Google Chrome, AI assistant, web browser, search engine, AI, Aravind Srinivas, Dia, The Browser Company, OpenAI

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