Perplexity Makes Comet AI Browser Free Worldwide
AI search startup Perplexity has removed the paywall from its Comet browser, making the AI-powered browsing experience available to everyone at no cost. This strategic move positions Comet directly against established browsers like Google Chrome and emerging AI competitors in the increasingly crowded browser market.
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The decision to go free comes as Perplexity faces mounting competition from both tech giants and newcomers, including The Browser Company’s AI-powered Dia browser and OpenAI‘s anticipated browser launch. As originally reported by our colleagues at IMD Controls, this shift represents a significant expansion of Perplexity’s user acquisition strategy.
Comet’s Core Features for All Users
Every Comet user now receives access to the browser’s signature sidecar assistant, which provides real-time help while browsing. This AI companion can:
- Answer questions about the current webpage
- Summarize content for quick comprehension
- Manage web content and navigation tasks
- Provide contextual assistance throughout the browsing experience
Additionally, free users can access several specialized tools including Discover for personalized content recommendations, Spaces for project organization, Shopping for price comparison, Travel for destination planning, Finance for budgeting, and Sports for updates and schedules.
Enhanced Capabilities for Max Subscribers
While the base browser is now free, Perplexity’s $200-per-month Max subscribers receive significant upgrades, including access to high-performance AI models and an email assistant that can draft responses, organize inboxes, schedule meetings, and match your communication tone.
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The most notable addition for Max users is the new “background assistant” that CEO Aravind Srinivas recently unveiled. Described as “a team of assistants working for you,” this feature operates through a central dashboard that functions like mission control.
How the Background Assistant Works
The background assistant can handle multiple tasks simultaneously while you focus on other work or step away from your computer. According to company demonstrations, users can assign complex multi-step tasks such as:
- Sending emails with appropriate content
- Finding concert tickets at the best prices
- Booking flights based on specific criteria
Users can monitor task progress through the dashboard and intervene when necessary—such as approving final actions before completion. The assistant notifies users when tasks are finished and features “better connectors” to integrate with other applications on the user’s computer.
Subscription Options and Future Plans
Free Comet users have the option to upgrade to Comet Plus for $5 monthly, which aims to provide an AI-enhanced alternative to Apple News. Current Pro ($20/month) and Max subscribers will receive Comet Plus access automatically as part of their existing plans.
As the AI browser competition intensifies, Perplexity’s success will depend on demonstrating tangible productivity benefits that justify users switching from their current browsing solutions. The company’s decision to make Comet free represents a bold attempt to capture market share before major competitors fully enter the space.
