Perplexity Launches Free AI-Powered Comet Browser

Perplexity has made its AI‑driven browser, Comet, available to all users at no cost. Initially offered only to high‑paying subscribers, the browser now promises a free forever model while retaining premium features for paid tiers. Comet integrates Perplexity’s search tools and a personal AI assistant that navigates the web alongside users, aiming to simplify tasks such as shopping and travel planning. The company also announced Comet Plus, a few‑dollar add‑on that delivers curated news from major outlets, and highlighted competition from Google, The Browser Company, and Opera as the AI‑browser race intensifies.

Comet Becomes Free for Everyone

Perplexity announced that its AI‑centric browser, Comet, is now accessible to all users without any subscription fee. The company emphasizes that the free model will remain permanent, positioning Comet as a serious challenger to dominant browsers such as Google Chrome.

From Paid Pilot to Open Access

When Comet first launched in July, it was restricted to subscribers of Perplexity’s $200‑per‑month Max plan. The rollout later expanded to select users on the cheaper Pro plan and to invitees on a waitlist described as "millions‑strong." With today’s change, no payment is required to download or use the browser.

AI at the Core of the Browsing Experience

Comet places artificial intelligence at the heart of web navigation. It incorporates Perplexity’s own AI search capabilities and offers a personal AI assistant that "travels the web with" users, rather than being a separate overlay. According to the company, the assistant helps streamline everyday tasks such as online shopping, booking trips, and general life administration, allowing users to "get more done."

Comet Plus: Curated News for a Small Fee

In August, Perplexity introduced Comet Plus, a subscription add‑on that provides curated news content. CEO Aravind Srinivas likened the offering to Apple News Plus. The package includes access to articles from major publishers such as CNN, Condé Nast, Fortune, Le Figaro, Le Monde, the Los Angeles Times, and the Washington Post. While Comet Plus is included at no extra charge for Pro and Max subscribers, other users can add it for $5 per month.

Competitive Landscape

Perplexity is not alone in embedding AI into browsers. Google has integrated its Gemini model into Chrome, The Browser Company is focusing on its Dia AI, and Opera recently launched the Neon AI browser. The rapid development of AI‑enhanced browsing tools underscores a broader industry shift toward more intelligent, task‑oriented internet experiences.

Future Outlook

Perplexity’s decision to make Comet free while maintaining premium tiers suggests a dual strategy: broaden user adoption through a no‑cost entry point and monetize advanced features via subscription services like Comet Plus. The company’s emphasis on a seamless AI assistant aims to differentiate Comet in a crowded market where major players are racing to embed generative AI into everyday browsing.