Perplexity Unveils Comet Browser, Challenges Google Chrome

Perplexity CEO Arvind Srinivas has stirred the tech world by launching the Comet AI Browser, marking the company’s bold step into browser territory dominated by Google. On X, Srinivas warned that “leaving the internet in Google’s hands is very dangerous,” signaling Perplexity’s ambition to offer users an alternative that combines familiarity with intelligence.

Built on the Chromium framework, Comet supports Chrome extensions and bookmarks, ensuring users feel at home while exploring new AI-powered tools. Its AI sidebar assistant allows for summarizing articles, drafting emails, managing schedules, and real-time fact-checking. Additional features include workspace management, content generation, and personalized recommendations, designed to make browsing smarter and more productive.

Perplexity recently grabbed headlines with a $34.5 billion offer to acquire Chrome from Google, almost double the company’s own $18 billion valuation. The offer included promises to keep Chromium open-source, maintain default search settings, and invest $3 billion over two years if the acquisition went through. This came alongside the US Department of Justice pushing Google to sell Chrome amid antitrust concerns, highlighting Perplexity’s aggressive approach in the AI search and browser market.

Currently, Comet is available for Perplexity Pro users in India on Windows and macOS. Android pre-orders are open, and an iOS version is expected soon. As a launch incentive, Perplexity has partnered with Bharti Airtel to offer a free one-year Pro subscription for new users.

With this move, Perplexity aims not only to challenge Google’s dominance but also to redefine how AI integrates into everyday web browsing, giving users a smarter, more personalized experience.