Perplexity, the AI search startup, has made its Comet browser available to everyone for free, aiming to compete with major browsers like Google Chrome and other AI-powered browsers such as Dia. Comet offers a unique AI-powered sidecar assistant that helps users while they browse the web, summarize content, and manage tasks.
Free Comet Browser Features
The free version of Comet includes a sidecar assistant that joins you as you browse. This assistant can:
- Answer questions about the webpage you’re on
- Summarize content
- Help navigate and manage web pages
Free users also get access to tools like:
- Discover – Personalized news and content recommendations
- Spaces – Organize and manage projects
- Shopping – Compare prices and find online deals
- Travel – Find flights, accommodations, and travel information
- Finance – Budget, track expenses, and monitor investments
- Sports – Updates on scores, schedules, and news
Paid Plans and the Background Assistant
Perplexity first introduced Comet to $200/month Max plan subscribers, and millions joined the waitlist. Now, Max users and other paid subscribers can access advanced AI tools, including a background assistant.
This assistant works like a team of helpers, performing multiple tasks on your computer while you focus on other work. For example, it can:
- Draft and send emails
- Add tickets to your cart
- Find the best flight for a specific date
Users can track progress from a central dashboard and intervene if needed. The assistant also integrates with other apps on your computer for better productivity.
Additional Paid Features
- Comet Plus – AI-enhanced content similar to Apple News, available for free Pro and Max users, or as a $5/month standalone subscription for free users.
- Pro Plan ($20/month) – Advanced AI models, image and video generation, file upload and analysis, and early access to Comet Plus.
Why This Matters
Perplexity’s Comet browser combines AI search, task management, and productivity tools in one platform. By offering a free version, Perplexity hopes to attract users who want more than traditional browsers can provide. Paid plans add extra AI capabilities for those who want a fully automated browsing experience.
With competition from Google Chrome, The Browser Company’s Dia, and soon OpenAI’s AI browser, Perplexity will need to prove that Comet’s AI assistant reliably boosts productivity to convince users to switch.
