Perplexity Makes Comet AI Browser Free, Adds Background Assistant for Max Users

Perplexity is opening its Comet AI‑powered web browser to everyone at no cost while introducing a new “background assistant” for subscribers of its Max plan. The free version retains the sidecar assistant that answers questions, summarizes pages, and helps with navigation. Max users gain access to higher‑performing AI models and a multitasking background assistant that can handle emails, shopping, and travel tasks from a central dashboard. The move positions Comet against established browsers like Google Chrome and newer AI‑focused options such as The Browser Company’s Dia, as the market anticipates OpenAI’s own AI browser launch.

Free Launch of Comet Browser

Perplexity announced that its Comet browser, previously limited to Max‑plan subscribers, is now available worldwide for free. The company aims to broaden its user base and compete directly with major browsers and emerging AI‑enhanced competitors. All free users receive the core sidecar assistant, which appears alongside the browsing window to answer questions, summarize content, manage web information, and navigate pages on the user’s behalf.

Core Features for All Users

Beyond the sidecar assistant, the free version offers a suite of tools including personalized news and content recommendations (Discover), project organization (Spaces), price comparison and deal finding (Shopping), travel information aggregation (Travel), budgeting and investment tracking (Finance), and sports updates (Sports). These features aim to provide a richer browsing experience without requiring a paid subscription.

Enhanced Capabilities for Max Subscribers

Subscribers to Perplexity’s Max plan retain access to higher‑performance AI models and additional productivity tools. Notably, the company introduced a “background assistant” that operates behind the scenes while users continue other tasks. According to a company spokesperson, the assistant functions like “a team of assistants working for you,” managed from a central “mission control” dashboard. It can execute multiple tasks simultaneously, such as drafting emails, adding concert tickets to a cart, and locating the best direct flight for a specific date and time. Users can monitor progress, intervene when needed, and receive notifications upon task completion.

Competitive Landscape

Perplexity’s decision to make Comet free comes as the AI‑browser market heats up. Established browsers like Google Chrome and newer entrants such as The Browser Company’s Dia are vying for user attention. Additionally, industry anticipation builds around OpenAI’s forthcoming AI‑powered browser. By offering a free product with a robust assistant and premium features for paying users, Perplexity hopes to demonstrate tangible productivity gains that could persuade users to switch from their current browsers.

Future Plans and Pricing Options

While the free version includes the sidecar assistant, Perplexity also offers a standalone subscription called Comet Plus for users who want an AI‑enhanced alternative to traditional news aggregators. Existing Pro and Max users will receive Comet Plus automatically. The company’s broader strategy appears focused on expanding its ecosystem of AI‑driven tools while maintaining a tiered offering that balances free accessibility with premium capabilities for power users.