Perplexity makes Comet AI browser freely available to users worldwide

Perplexity has announced that its Comet AI browser is now free for all users, marking a significant expansion beyond its initial launch for paying subscribers. First introduced in July for Perplexity Max users at $200 per month and later extended to Pro subscribers, Comet is now accessible on Windows, Mac, and iOS, with an Android version expected soon.

Comet has been positioned as one of the first truly “agentic” browsers, tools that go beyond search and navigation to perform real-world tasks. Users can prompt Comet to manage tabs, book flights, compare shopping options, or even draft emails. According to Perplexity, users who tested the browser asked between six to 18 times more questions compared to standard interactions on the platform.

While the free tier gives access to features such as Discover, Shopping, Travel, Finance, Spaces, and Sports, advanced tools remain locked behind a paywall. For instance, Perplexity Max users now gain access to a new ‘background assistant’ that can carry out complex, multi-step actions autonomously. Additionally, only Max customers will be able to use the company's AI-powered email assistant for Gmail and Outlook, which can prioritize messages, condense lengthy threads, and set up meetings.

Read On: Aravind Srinivas says Perplexity to launch Comet browser

The launch comes as competition in the AI browser space intensifies. Google has started integrating Gemini-powered features directly into Chrome, while Opera’s invite-only Neon browser offers similar agent-driven capabilities. Brave has embedded its Leo AI assistant within the browser, and DuckDuckGo has introduced Duck.ai to enable AI interactions without compromising user privacy.

CEO Aravind Srinivas shared on X that the waitlist for Comet had crossed millions since July, underscoring the strong demand. He also teased that Comet’s Android version is “coming soon.”

In addition, Perplexity has unveiled Comet Plus, a $5 subscription that grants AI assistants access to journalism content while compensating publishers like CNN and The Washington Post. Pro and Max subscribers will get Comet Plus bundled at no extra cost, signaling a step towards balancing AI growth with media sustainability.

With Comet’s free release, Perplexity is setting the stage for a fierce contest against Chrome and other next-gen AI browsers.