Perplexity launches AI-powered Comet web browser to enhance intelligence

On July 9, 2025, the technology company Perplexity, based in San Francisco, introduced the Comet web browser as part of its efforts to create an innovative browsing experience. The launch was aimed primarily at high-paying subscribers of Perplexity Max, along with a select group of other users who were invited to join the waitlist. This browser stands out in the crowded field of web browsers, not simply as another alternative to Google Chrome but as the forefront of a new category of applications known as agentic applications. These applications utilize artificial intelligence capabilities to transform user interaction by creating autonomous agents capable of performing complex tasks without needing continuous human oversight. The Comet browser is described as a 'direct line to the world's knowledge' and is designed to improve how users search for information online by summarizing search results in a clear, comprehensible format, crediting original sources and making information digestible. This shift reflects evolving attitudes toward artificial intelligence, especially in workplaces where Gallup recently reported a substantial increase in AI usage among employees — from 21% two years ago to 40% today for occasional use. Perplexity’s vision for Comet is to revolutionize user engagement with the internet, thereby altering how digital commerce is conducted. By focusing on AI-driven solutions rather than retrofitting existing tools, Perplexity aims to empower users more intelligently and efficiently.