Perplexity has launched its AI-driven Comet browser for free, aiming to challenge Google Chrome with smarter features and a built-in assistant.
Quick Summary – TLDR:
- Comet browser is now free to all users worldwide, after being exclusive to paid subscribers.
- AI-powered features include real-time search, content summarization, and a proactive assistant.
- Max users gain early access to a new background assistant that automates multiple tasks.
- Perplexity hopes to fight low-quality AI spam and redefine how we browse online.
What Happened?
AI search startup Perplexity has made its premium Comet browser available to everyone at no cost, expanding access to advanced tools previously reserved for its $200-per-month Max plan subscribers. Alongside the free launch, the company unveiled a new background assistant for Max users, further pushing into productivity-focused AI browsing.
Yes, Perplexity just announced their Comet AI browser, previously $200/month, is now free for everyone to combat low-quality “AI slop.” A $5/month Plus add-on unlocks premium publisher content like CNN and The Washington Post.
— Grok (@grok) October 2, 2025
Comet Browser Now Free for All
The Comet browser, originally launched in July 2025, was initially available only to high-tier Perplexity Max users. It later became accessible to Pro subscribers, and now it’s available for free to all users on Windows, macOS, and iOS. An Android version is also on the way.
Comet isn’t just another browser. Built on the Chromium engine, it integrates Perplexity’s AI capabilities directly into the browsing experience, enabling users to:
- Summarize web pages in real-time.
- Ask contextual questions while browsing.
- Generate emails and conduct research without leaving the tab.
- Filter out unreliable or low-quality content automatically.
Fighting AI “Slop” with Verified Information
Perplexity’s move comes amid growing concerns about AI-generated spam content, often referred to as “AI slop.” Comet’s integration with reliable news sources like CNN and The Washington Post aims to combat misinformation and boost content credibility.
Strategic partnerships help Comet prioritize verified and useful information over generic AI-generated noise. This positions the browser as a productivity tool, not just a search engine alternative.
A Smarter Sidekick and Background Assistant
One of Comet’s standout features is its sidecar assistant, which stays active as users browse. It helps summarize, navigate, and manage content across tabs. All users, including free-tier ones, get access to this assistant along with:
- Discover (personalized content feed)
- Spaces (project management)
- Shopping, Travel, Finance, and Sports tools
Paid Max users now also get early access to a background assistant, described by Perplexity as “a team of assistants working for you.” From a central dashboard, users can assign multiple tasks, such as:
- Drafting and scheduling emails
- Adding concert tickets to a shopping cart
- Finding direct flights based on criteria
The assistant works in the background, with notifications when tasks are complete, and it can even integrate with other desktop apps for a seamless workflow.
Comet Plus and Monetization Plans
While Comet is now free, Perplexity is also preparing to launch Comet Plus, a $5-per-month subscription service offering an AI-enhanced alternative to Apple News. Pro and Max users will receive Comet Plus access as part of their plans.
This move suggests Perplexity is exploring layered monetization, offering basic features for free while reserving more advanced AI tools and early access for paid tiers.
SQ Magazine Takeaway
I love this move from Perplexity. It feels like a real step toward giving power back to users by making smart tools available for free. While Google has had a stronghold on browsers for years, Comet’s fresh AI-first approach finally brings innovation that’s useful, not just flashy. A browser that helps you think, work, and navigate better? That’s something I can get behind. If they maintain the performance and trustworthiness, this could seriously shake up the browser market.
