Perplexity Offers Comet AI Browser for Free, Launches Comet Plus

Perplexity is adjusting its strategy to balance free access with premium AI tools as competition in the AI browser market grows.

The company has made its Comet AI browser available for free to all users, expanding access beyond its previous paid subscriber base. This browser, initially launched for Max subscribers, introduces tools aimed at transforming web browsing into an AI-driven task assistant.

Comet is described as a 'browser for agentic search', utilizing autonomous software agents capable of managing multi-step tasks for users.

Free users can access a sidecar assistant along with tools for shopping comparisons, travel planning, budgeting, sports updates, project management, and personalized recommendations.

Max subscribers receive early access to more advanced features, including a background assistant likened to a personal mission control dashboard. This tool can draft emails, book tickets, find flights, and integrate with apps on a user's computer, operating tasks in the background with minimal intervention.

Pro users continue to have access to advanced AI models and media generation tools.

Perplexity is also introducing Comet Plus, a $5-per-month standalone subscription service that serves as an AI-powered alternative to Apple News. Current Pro and Max subscribers will automatically receive this service.

This move highlights Perplexity's ambition to expand its ecosystem while balancing free accessibility with premium AI features.