Perplexity AI has announced plans for a new browser named Comet, designed specifically for agentic search. The company invited users to sign up for a beta version in a post on X.
The browser’s launch date remains uncertain, as does its design and features. A spokesperson from Perplexity told TechCrunch, “Just like Perplexity reinvented search, we’re also reinventing the browser. Stay tuned for updates.”
Perplexity AI announces new browser Comet for agentic search
Perplexity AI operates as an AI-powered search engine that merges extensive information from large language models (LLMs) with real-time web searching, providing users with comprehensive and accurate answers to their queries. The introduction of Comet will add to the competitive landscape of web browsers, which includes leading options like Chrome and a variety of alternative browsers, including the forthcoming Dia browser from The Browser Company that also features AI capabilities.
Perplexity aims to use its established search engine user base to gain a foothold in the browser market. The company is rapidly expanding its product offerings; just this month, it released a “deep research” tool aimed at competing with similar products from OpenAI, Google, and xAI. In January, Perplexity also launched an AI-powered assistant for Android and an API for AI search.
The company, founded in 2022, has reportedly raised over $500 million in capital from venture capitalists and is valued at approximately $9 billion. Perplexity AI handles more than 100 million queries weekly and is exploring monetization strategies, including an advertising program.
However, the company is facing legal challenges from publishers, such as News Corp’s Dow Jones and the NY Post, which have sued Perplexity, alleging it operates a “content kleptocracy.” Additional concerns have been raised by various news outlets regarding the replication of their content, leading to a cease-and-desist notice issued by The New York Times in October.
Agentic search, the concept underpinning Comet, is defined as an AI-powered tool that can understand complex instructions, perform tasks, and autonomously make decisions while only offering links it employs as citations. This differentiates it from traditional search engines.
Currently, there is limited information available regarding the specific features and positioning of the Comet browser. Perplexity’s efforts to develop a web browser have not yet progressed as its AI suggests no changes or developments. Users interested in beta access can sign up through a minimalistic webpage set up by Perplexity, which allows them to receive updates on the testing process.
Perplexity’s offerings are growing rapidly, and it will navigate significant competition in the browser market, particularly given Google Chrome’s dominant share and the presence of other innovative browsers. The upcoming Dia browser, for instance, allows users to issue natural language commands, a feature that Comet may also incorporate.
Featured image credit: Perplexity
