The Comet browser by Perplexity is now available worldwide for free desktop download, moving beyond its initial waitlist phase. Since its limited release on July 9, millions have eagerly joined the waitlist, making Comet one of the most sought-after AI products of the year. Users have embraced Comet’s capabilities, demonstrating increased curiosity and productivity, which validates the browser’s design philosophy.
The Philosophy Behind Comet
Perplexity emphasizes curiosity as the driving force behind innovation and progress, citing historical examples like the invention of the transistor and the Wright brothers’ pursuit of flight. They argue the current internet stifles curiosity by focusing on answers and commercial funnels rather than questions and exploration. Comet aims to reverse this trend by making asking questions the default mode of internet use, which has led to a 6-18X increase in questions asked by users on the first day of use.
Features and Innovations
- Comet Assistant: An AI assistant integrated into every new browser tab that helps with research, meetings, coding, e-commerce, and more, enabling users to stay focused and get real answers with fewer distractions.
- Beyond Chat Bots: Perplexity challenges the traditional chatbot model by introducing tools like the Email Assistant (available to Max Subscribers), which automates scheduling, drafts replies, and manages inbox tasks simply by cc’ing the assistant.
- Background Assistants: A new platform announced for asynchronous AI assistants that work simultaneously in the background to handle to-do lists and boost productivity.
- Mobile Expansion: While Comet has been desktop-only, a mobile app is in development, promising a clutter-free, ad-free experience with advanced voice technology for seamless interaction with AI assistants on any device.
Commitment to Quality Content
Recognizing that technology alone cannot improve the internet, Perplexity launched Comet Plus, a program featuring reputable publishers to promote real journalism and quality information. This initiative supports their mission to foster global curiosity by providing users with trustworthy content alongside powerful AI tools.
Perplexity’s vision is to create a radically better internet where curiosity leads, supported by AI that enhances productivity and access to quality knowledge.
