Perplexity’s Comet AI browser now free; Max users get new ‘background assistant’

Perplexity, the innovative AI search startup, has just announced that its Comet browser is now available to users around the globe at no cost. This strategic move aims to position Comet as a formidable competitor against established web browsers and search engines. Originally introduced to subscribers of the $200-per-month Max plan just three months ago, the Comet browser has garnered significant interest, with millions joining the waitlist to gain access. Its standout feature is a sidecar assistant that remains active while users browse, providing real-time answers to queries, summarizing web content, and assisting with navigation. In an effort to rival giants like Google Chrome and emerging players like The Browser Company's AI-enhanced Dia browser, Perplexity is making a bold statement. The launch of Comet for free comes just ahead of the expected debut of OpenAI's own AI-powered browser, intensifying the competitive landscape. To succeed, Perplexity must demonstrate that Comet can deliver significant productivity benefits, as users may hesitate to abandon their current browsers without clear advantages. While free users will primarily have access to the sidecar assistant, they can also enjoy tools such as Discover for personalized news and content, Spaces for project management, and Shopping for price comparisons across online retailers. Additional features like Travel, Finance, and Sports provide aggregated information on travel, budgeting, and live sports updates. Premium users who subscribe to the Max plan will benefit from advanced AI capabilities, including an email assistant designed to draft messages, organize inboxes, and manage scheduling. The latest announcement from CEO Aravind Srinivas introduced a groundbreaking 'background assistant,' described by a company spokesperson as a collective of assistants that users can control from a centralized dashboard, likened to a 'mission control.' This assistant can execute multiple tasks simultaneously, allowing users to focus on other activities. For instance, users can delegate tasks such as sending emails or finding the best concert tickets while they multitask. The dashboard allows users to monitor task progress and intervene as necessary. Additionally, the background assistant boasts improved connectivity, enabling access to various applications on the user's computer. For those looking for more features, free Comet users can opt for a $5-per-month subscription to Comet Plus, which offers an AI-driven alternative to Apple News. Pro users, who pay $20 monthly for enhanced AI models and other features, will automatically gain access to Comet Plus as well.