Perplexity Launches Comet AI Browser Beta for Windows; Android Version in Development
Perplexity Launches Comet AI Browser Beta for Windows; Android Version in Development
Perplexity AI has announced the launch of a beta version of its AI-powered Comet browser for Windows users. CEO Aravind Srinivas shared this news via the social media platform X, stating that invitations have been sent to select users for early testing. This follows the May launch of a beta version for Apple Silicon Macs.
The Comet browser incorporates several AI features designed to enhance browsing. These include the ability to process natural language queries, identify discounts in online shopping carts, and locate unread emails. A notable feature is “Try on,” which allows users to upload photos and virtually try on clothing items.
While no official release date has been announced for the Windows version, Srinivas has indicated that an Android version is also under development and is progressing ahead of schedule. He has also alluded to a potential future iOS version.
Following comments made by Srinivas in a podcast about data collection extending beyond the app itself to better understand user behavior, concerns regarding user privacy were raised. Srinivas subsequently clarified on X that these remarks were misinterpreted and that users will have the option to opt out of personalized advertising features.
The Comet browser utilizes what Perplexity refers to as “agentic search,” aiming to differentiate itself from competitors such as Opera Neon and AI-enhanced browsers from Google and OpenAI. The browser’s integrated AI tools and unique search capabilities are intended to provide a distinct browsing experience.
The Windows beta release is currently limited to a select group of early testers. Individuals interested in participating can potentially join a waitlist on the Perplexity website, although this is not explicitly stated in the source material. The company has not yet provided a specific launch date for the full release of the Windows version or any other platforms.
The development of Comet reflects a broader trend in the tech industry towards incorporating AI capabilities into web browsers. Other companies are similarly integrating generative AI models into both existing and new browsers, focusing on features that offer proactive, rather than solely reactive, assistance to users. These features often include AI-generated summaries of search results and other forms of proactive assistance.
In summary, Perplexity’s Comet browser, currently in beta for Windows and previously launched for Mac users, offers a range of AI-driven features aimed at enhancing the browsing experience. While a full release date remains unannounced, the company is actively developing versions for Android and potentially iOS, and has addressed initial user privacy concerns regarding data collection practices.
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