Perplexity unveils Comet, a “thinking” web browser powered by AI

Perplexity, the AI search startup known for its commitment to accuracy and real-time knowledge, has unveiled Comet, a next-generation AI-powered web browser designed to transform how people interact with the internet. From passive browsing to active thinking.

Comet is designed to address the challenges of the modern internet, where users are often overwhelmed by numerous tabs and applications, leading to disjointed experiences. Perplexity argues that current Browse tools are "primitive" for an internet that has become humanity's "extended mind."

Key features

At the core of Comet is an intelligent interface that integrates deeply with user thought processes. The browser's standout feature is the Comet Assistant, an AI agent embedded directly into the browser experience. This assistant can:

• Understand context: It actively conducts Browse sessions, allowing users to ask questions anywhere they occur, whether on a specific webpage or across multiple open tabs.

• Facilitate cognition: Users can ask Comet to compare information across sites, analyze what they're reading against previously viewed content, and explore tangential ideas without losing their original context.

• Enable action: Beyond providing answers, Comet can execute complex workflows through natural language commands. Users can ask Comet to book meetings, send emails, make purchases, or even provide daily briefings based on information encountered online.

• Prioritize accuracy: Perplexity emphasizes that Comet inherits its "obsession with accurate and trustworthy answers." The browser is designed to provide reliable information, crucial for decision-making in an increasingly interconnected world.

• Foster curiosity: Comet aims to transform any webpage into a "portal of curiosity." Users can highlight text for instant explanations, ask specialized or broad questions, and receive counterpoints or suggestions for further exploration, allowing their curiosity to drive a proactive and personalized assistant.

Availability and future outlook

Comet is initially available to Perplexity Max subscribers, which currently costs $200 per month. An invite-only access program will gradually roll out to users on a waitlist throughout the summer, with new users also receiving a limited number of invites to share.

The browser is built on Chromium, ensuring compatibility with existing Chrome extensions and seamless migration of bookmarks and settings. It is currently available for macOS and Windows, with plans for more platforms in the coming months.

Perplexity states that Comet will continue to evolve with new features and functionality, driven by user feedback and advancements in AI. The company's mission remains to "serve the world’s curiosity," envisioning a future where individuals never stop asking questions.. Comet is designed to be the ultimate tool to support that mission.