Perplexity Opens Comet, Its AI Browser, to Everyone — Free and Forever
After initially limiting its Comet browser to premium subscribers paying hundreds of dollars per month, Perplexity has now made it available to everyone for free. “The Internet is better with Comet,” claims the startup, which assures that the browser will remain free forever.
An ambitious announcement that positions Comet as a serious competitor to Google Chrome.
Comet: A Browser Designed for AI
Unlike traditional browsers that add AI features later, Comet was built from the ground up around Perplexity’s intelligent assistant.
The AI “travels with you” on the web, according to the company, and does not simply respond to queries. The goal is to simplify browsing and assist the user with concrete tasks—such as shopping, booking trips, or managing administrative processes.
Launched in July, Comet was initially exclusive to Perplexity Max subscribers ($200/month). A few selected Pro users and invited guests had the opportunity to try it out. Now, however, no subscription is needed: the company opens access to the general public, ending a waiting list that already counted millions.
Comet Plus: Optional Premium Content
Perplexity has also confirmed the list of initial partners for Comet Plus, its paid offering inspired by Apple News+. Featured content includes articles from CNN, Condé Nast, Fortune, Le Figaro, Le Monde, The Los Angeles Times, and The Washington Post.
Pro and Max subscribers will automatically have access to this, while other users can subscribe for $5 per month.
A Battle of AI Browsers
With this launch, Perplexity enters an already competitive landscape. Google has integrated Gemini into Chrome, The Browser Company is betting on Arc with its AI Dia, and Opera just unveiled its own intelligent browser, Neon.
In short, Perplexity aims to establish Comet as the Chrome of the AI era: a free, intelligent, and user-focused browser backed by an optional premium offering. It remains to be seen if this promise will attract interest beyond initial curiosity.
