Perplexity Launches New AI Web Browser to Compete with Chrome and Edge

Alright, so I stumbled upon this announcement today. Perplexity—yeah, the AI people—just dropped a new browser called “Comet.” Catchy name, right? Here’s the kicker: if you want it now, it’ll set you back a cool $200 a month. I know, ouch. But that’s only if you’re on their Max plan. Apparently, they’ll let the rest of us peasants try it later, invite-only. Not paying? No worries, just hop on the waitlist.

So, I guess the CEO, Aravind Srinivas, says Comet turns your browsing into a full-on convo. Need to book a meeting or send an email? Just ask Comet. Left your shopping cart lonely? It’s got you. Feels like, you know, having a personal assistant who lives in your browser. Wild stuff.

Perplexity’s throwing some shade at good ol’ Chrome and Safari, implying they’re fossils from the digital Stone Age. And yet, Comet sorta follows in their footsteps. Chrome and Microsoft Edge have been cozying up to AI for a while. Edge even calls itself “the AI browser” now—bold move, Microsoft.

Oh, but wait, there’s more. Comet’s got a sidebar with Perplexity AI, like that buddy who never leaves. Sounds familiar? Google’s toying with Gemini for Chrome too. Crazy how we’re in this AI browser race.

They did manage to squeeze in some fresh tricks—using your address bar to chat like you’re Sherlock remembering past clues. But, beneath the hood, Comet’s sharing its DNA with the Chromium gang—Chrome, Edge, you name it—so your beloved extensions? They should fit right in. Silver lining, right?

And it’s not just for Windows; Mac lovers get in on the action too, with more platforms coming. Eventually, I guess, it’ll be free. For now, cough up the greens or join the waitlist crew.

Rumor mill says OpenAI is cooking up its own browser. Imagine that showdown. Honestly, could this AI browser frenzy spell doom for the wide-open web? Who knows. Maybe we’re looking at the next big shift. Buckle up; it’s gonna be an interesting ride.