Deta Surf App: AI Browser & NotebookLM Integration

The Convergence of AI Browsers and Knowledge Management

Currently, the development of artificial intelligence is witnessing a trend of combining distinct technologies, often expressed as “X meets Y” applications. Several companies are already introducing applications that integrate AI with platforms like TikTok. Berlin- and New York-based startup Deta is now introducing a new application, Surf, which merges the functionality of an AI browser with features reminiscent of Google’s NotebookLM.

Introducing Deta Surf

Launching today in beta, Deta Surf functions as both a web browser and a research assistant, enabling users to construct notebooks centered around various subjects. Leveraging AI, it can provide concise summaries of topics based on user-defined prompts. The resulting information is presented in a document styled similarly to Notion, and is fully editable.

Core Functionality: Browsing and Information Extraction

At its foundation, Surf is a browser, allowing users to navigate the internet by opening URLs. During web browsing, the tool facilitates the summarization and extraction of crucial insights from webpages, PDF documents, and even YouTube videos.

AI-Powered Interaction and Content Creation

Users can reference multiple browser tabs as contextual information for the integrated AI chatbot, enabling targeted questioning. Furthermore, Deta Surf possesses code generation capabilities, allowing users to request the creation of small applications, interactive graphs, or charts directly within their notebooks. Any output generated by the AI can then be seamlessly incorporated into a specific notebook.

Comparison to Existing AI Browsers

Several contemporary AI browsers, including Perplexity’s Comet, The Browser Company’s Dia, and Opera Neon, also allow users to utilize open tabs as context. A subset of these browsers also offer the ability to generate concise code snippets.

Deta’s Evolution

Founded in 2019, Deta initially aimed to develop a novel operating system based on an infinite canvas. However, this product was discontinued in 2023, leading the company to refocus its efforts on an AI browser.

A Shift in Perspective

According to Max Eusterbrock, co-founder of Deta, the company explored various browser interface designs but ultimately determined that pursuing this direction was not optimal.

The Limitations of AI-Driven Browsing

“During a year in Alpha testing, we observed that AI browsers were tending towards becoming tools for machines to navigate hypertext designed for human consumption,” Eusterbrock explained. He further noted that an interface lacking editing capabilities is not conducive to effective human-machine interaction.

Surf vs. NotebookLM

While Surf shares functional similarities with a traditional browser, the startup identifies NotebookLM as its primary competitor. Eusterbrock posits that Surf’s ability to provide contextual awareness through tabs and its local data storage for offline notebook access make it particularly well-suited for students and researchers.

Availability and Future Development

The tool is currently available for free, and the company is actively developing an image generation feature. Future plans may include a premium subscription model offering features such as cloud backup, collaborative editing, and support for multiple devices.

Funding and Investment

In 2023, Deta secured $3.6 million in seed funding, led by Crane Venture Partners, with participation from System.One, Tomahawk.VC, Tiny.VC, Acequia Capital, Angel Invest, and NPHard. Subsequently, the company raised an additional $500,000 from both existing and new investors.