Perplexity AI announced recently that its Comet browser is now free for everyone worldwide, ditching the $200 monthly fee that previously locked out most users.
This puts Comet directly in competition with tech giants’ AI browser offerings. Google recently integrated Gemini into Chrome, while OpenAI and Anthropic have their own browser-based AI agents in development.
Perplexity AI Browser Goes From Premium to Free
Comet first launched in July 2025 exclusively for Perplexity Max subscribers paying $200 per month. The startup says millions joined the waitlist during the three-month exclusive period, making it “the most sought-after AI product of the year“.
Users with early access increased their question-asking by 6-18 times on their first day using Comet, according to Perplexity’s data. The company says this proves people want a more interactive, AI-powered browsing experience.
“People love Comet,” Perplexity stated in its announcement. “We want everyone to have the choice to use Comet.”
AI Assistant Travels With Users Across Web Pages
Unlike traditional browsers that add AI features as extras, Comet puts artificial intelligence at the center of web browsing. The browser includes a sidecar assistant that follows users across websites, ready to answer questions about any page they visit.
The AI assistant helps with tasks like research, shopping, booking travel, and general productivity. Users can ask questions about complex concepts, get summaries of long articles, or have the assistant navigate websites on their behalf.
Each new tab opens with a fresh Comet Assistant ready to handle questions or complete actions. The system aims to keep users in their workflow instead of breaking focus to search for answers elsewhere.
Background Assistant Handles Multiple Tasks Simultaneously
Perplexity Max subscribers get access to a new “Background Assistant” feature that works like having multiple AI helpers running tasks simultaneously. Users can assign several jobs at once, such as sending emails, finding concert tickets, and booking flights.
The Background Assistant operates through a central dashboard that Perplexity describes as “mission control.” Users can track progress on multiple tasks and jump in to complete final steps like hitting send on emails or confirming purchases.
This feature connects to other apps on users’ computers, though Perplexity hasn’t detailed exactly which applications work with the system.
Comet Plus Brings Premium News Content
Free Comet users can also upgrade to Comet Plus for $5 monthly to access curated news content from major publishers. Perplexity Pro ($20/month) and Max subscribers get Comet Plus included automatically.
Launch partners for Comet Plus include CNN, Condé Nast, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Fortune, Le Monde, and Le Figaro. The service works similarly to Apple News Plus, giving users access to premium journalism within the browser.
The news integration helps Perplexity address criticism about content sourcing. The company faced accusations of plagiarizing content from media outlets and launched a revenue-sharing model with publishers in response.
Mobile Version and Voice Features Coming Soon
Perplexity teased that Comet will expand beyond desktop computers. A mobile app is in development with voice technology for easier interaction with AI assistants.
The company says building a mobile AI assistant requires more careful consideration than simply porting desktop features to phones. The mobile version aims to eliminate ads and outdated app models that clutter smartphone browsing.
Free Strategy to Build User Base Quickly
Removing the paywall can grow Perplexity’s user base and gather data on how people actually use AI browsing features. The free model also helps Perplexity establish itself in users’ daily routines before competitors launch similar features. Getting people to switch browsers requires overcoming strong habits, making early adoption crucial.
Users can download Comet free here. The browser promises to remain free permanently, though premium features like Background Assistant and Comet Plus require paid subscriptions.
