Perplexity’s Comet Browser Is Now Free Worldwide
▼ Summary
– Perplexity released its Comet browser globally for free desktop download, moving from a waitlist system to open availability.
– Comet integrates an AI assistant into every new tab to answer questions, summarize pages, and assist with tasks without leaving the browser.
– The browser’s AI-first approach challenges traditional search engines by reducing the need for multiple searches and tab management.
– Background Assistants were introduced to handle tasks asynchronously, joining the existing Email Assistant for managing emails without separate apps.
– Mobile versions for iPhone and Android are in development and will include voice interaction capabilities for hands-free use.
The Comet browser from Perplexity is now available for free to desktop users worldwide, eliminating the previous waitlist system. This innovative browser integrates an AI assistant directly into every new tab, enabling users to ask questions, summarize web pages, and navigate the internet without constantly switching between search engine results and various other applications.
Initially launched in a limited capacity back in July, the company reports that millions of people signed up for the waitlist. Early adopters demonstrated significantly higher engagement, asking between six and eighteen times more questions on their very first day of use compared to traditional browsing habits. This new model presents a direct challenge to conventional search engines and web browsers by prioritizing an AI-first strategy for web navigation. The approach aims to minimize the need for performing multiple searches and the hassle of managing countless open tabs simultaneously.
What truly sets Comet apart is its integrated Comet Assistant. This AI-powered helper operates alongside the user, capable of handling a diverse range of tasks including in-depth research, providing support during meetings, assisting with coding projects, and helping with online shopping. The assistant is instantly accessible in every new browser tab, ready to answer queries or perform actions without forcing the user to leave their current page or disrupt their workflow. In contrast to traditional browsers that require opening a separate search engine, copying information between different tabs, or juggling multiple tools, Comet weaves assistance directly into the fabric of the browsing experience. You can pose questions using everyday language, and the assistant will deliver answers sourced from the web.
Alongside the global release, Perplexity introduced Background Assistants. These specialized assistants are designed to work simultaneously and asynchronously in the background, managing tasks without needing the user’s constant attention or supervision. They join the recently unveiled Email Assistant, a feature currently offered to Max Subscribers. This particular assistant can be carbon-copied on email threads to autonomously handle scheduling, draft reply messages, and manage inbox-related tasks, all without the user having to open a separate email application.
Although Comet has been exclusively for desktop since its summer debut, Perplexity has recently provided a preview of upcoming mobile versions for both iPhone and Android devices. The mobile iteration will incorporate voice recognition technology, allowing people to interact with the Comet assistants through spoken commands instead of typing.
Comet is currently available as a free download for desktop users at perplexity.ai/comet. For guidance and tips on how to get the most out of the browser, users can visit Perplexity’s online resource hub.
(Source: Search Engine Journal)
