Perplexity Comet: New AI-Powered Web Browser Revealed

Perplexity Announces Development of a New Web Browser

Perplexity, the AI-driven search engine, has announced its intention to develop a proprietary web browser.

Comet: A New Browser on the Horizon

A signup list for the browser, currently unnamed except for the codename Comet, was launched on the company’s X account on Monday. The exact release date and specific features of the browser remain undisclosed at this time.

According to a statement provided to TechCrunch, a Perplexity representative indicated that the browser aims to redefine the browsing experience, mirroring the company’s innovative approach to search. Further details are expected to be revealed soon.

A Competitive Browser Landscape

The introduction of Comet will enter a highly competitive market. Numerous browser options already exist, including established players like Chrome and a growing number of third-party alternatives.

Several of these alternatives, such as the forthcoming Dia browser from The Browser Company, are integrating AI-powered functionalities comparable to those offered by Perplexity.

Perplexity likely anticipates leveraging its existing user base to accelerate adoption and establish a presence within the browser market.

Rapid Product Expansion

This browser development represents the latest in a series of rapid product launches for Perplexity. The company recently unveiled a “deep research” tool designed to compete with similar offerings from OpenAI, Google, and xAI.

These releases followed the introduction of an AI assistant for Android devices and an API for AI search, both launched in January.

Company Growth and Funding

Established in 2022, Perplexity has secured over $500 million in funding from venture capitalists and is currently valued at $9 billion.

The AI search engine is experiencing substantial growth, processing more than 100 million queries weekly and actively expanding its monetization strategies, including an advertising program.

Legal Challenges and Publisher Concerns

Despite its success, Perplexity faces legal challenges related to copyright and content usage. News Corp’s Dow Jones and the NY Post have initiated legal action against the company.

These lawsuits allege that Perplexity engages in a “content kleptocracy” by closely replicating content from news sources. Numerous other news organizations have voiced similar concerns.

In October, The New York Times issued a cease-and-desist notice to Perplexity regarding content replication.

Addressing Publisher Concerns

Perplexity has responded by offering a revenue-sharing program for news outlets and asserting its respect for publisher content.