Perplexity pushes deeper into browser automation territory with ready-made shortcuts for Comet users. The AI search company announced task automation features that let users save and repeat common workflows with a single click.
CEO Aravind Srinivas revealed the news over the weekend on X. Users can now create shortcuts for repetitive tasks like organizing browser tabs, preparing for meetings, and tracking trending social media topics.
Comet Browser Gets Workflow Automation Tools
The shortcuts feature rolls out next week to existing Comet users. Perplexity designed these tools to eliminate the need for typing lengthy prompts repeatedly. Users save frequently used commands and activate them through one-button shortcuts.
Srinivas described the update as turning browsers into “personal consoles for getting work done.” The CEO also promised users can create “Tampermonkey-like scripts” using natural language prompts instead of code.
Browser automation addresses a key friction point for AI browser adoption. Complex tasks require detailed instructions, which becomes tedious for routine activities. Task shortcuts bridge this gap by storing proven workflows for instant reuse.
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Competition Heats Up in AI Browser Market
The Browser Company already launched similar automation features in its Dia browser through “Skills” functionality. The company created an official gallery where users share tested prompts with the community.
Both companies target the same pain point which is reducing the overhead of AI-powered browsing. Traditional browsers force users to switch between multiple tabs and applications. AI browsers promise to consolidate these workflows into single interactions.
Perplexity launched Comet in July 2025 as an AI-first browser alternative to Chrome. The platform integrates directly with Gmail, Google Calendar, and other productivity tools. Users can ask Comet to schedule meetings, draft emails, or research topics without leaving the browser interface.
Mobile Integration Plans Expand Comet’s Reach
Perplexity recently entered discussions with smartphone manufacturers about preinstalling Comet on mobile devices. The talks signal broader ambitions beyond desktop browsing experiences.
Currently, Comet remains in beta testing with access limited to Perplexity Max subscribers. The company sends invites gradually and allows existing users to share limited invites with others.
Task automation capabilities could accelerate Comet adoption among business users who perform repetitive online workflows. The browser positions itself as a productivity tool rather than just a search interface.
Browser Intelligence Becomes Standard Feature
AI browsers represent a fundamental shift from passive browsing to active assistance. Instead of opening multiple tabs to complete tasks, users describe their goals in natural language. The browser handles research, form filling, and cross-platform coordination automatically.
Comet’s task shortcuts make this intelligence more accessible. Users no longer need to remember specific prompting techniques or explain context repeatedly. Saved workflows maintain consistency while reducing cognitive overhead.
The feature directly competes with browser extensions and productivity apps that automate repetitive tasks. Perplexity bets that integrated AI assistance will prove more effective than traditional automation tools.
Industry Response to Agentic Browsing
OpenAI reportedly develops its own browser codenamed “Aura” to compete in this emerging market. Major tech companies recognize browsers as the next battleground for AI integration.
Traditional browsers like Chrome and Firefox face pressure to integrate similar intelligence. Google already experiments with AI features in Chrome, but dedicated AI browsers move faster with fewer legacy constraints.
Perplexity’s approach focuses on accuracy and trustworthy information rather than flashy features. The company applies its search expertise to browser automation, emphasizing reliable results over speed.
The addition of task shortcuts to Comet shows how AI browsers evolve from experimental tools toward practical productivity platforms. Success will depend on execution quality and user adoption rates across different workflows.
