Comet, Perplexity’s new AI-native browser built on Chrome, enables users to delegate browsing tasks to a local AI agent that operates within the browser, accessing authenticated sessions and performing actions like managing social media interactions and checking product availability. This innovative approach promises to streamline online activities, enhance productivity, and offer a glimpse into the future of AI-driven web browsing, despite some current limitations.
The video presents an early look at Comet, Perplexity’s new AI-native browser designed to revolutionize web browsing by allowing users to delegate browsing tasks to AI agents. Unlike traditional browsing where users interact directly with websites, Comet enables AI agents to perform actions on the user’s behalf within the browser itself. Built as a fork of Google Chrome, Comet offers a seamless setup experience by importing existing Chrome settings, bookmarks, extensions, and authentications, making it instantly ready to use. The browser is notably fast and integrates Perplexity’s AI deeply, with search defaults and new tabs centered around Perplexity’s platform.
One of the key innovations of Comet is its local AI agent that operates directly within the browser, rather than relying on cloud-based environments. This local operation allows the AI to access the user’s authenticated sessions and current browsing context, enabling more seamless and efficient task completion without the friction of re-authentication. This approach also mitigates platform risk by avoiding dependence on third-party browsers like Chrome or Safari, which may prioritize their own AI tools. The AI assistant can interact with open tabs, perform parallel tasks, and provide contextual information, enhancing productivity and user experience.
The video demonstrates several practical use cases, such as managing LinkedIn connection requests, finding and replying to top YouTube comments, checking product availability across multiple websites, and interacting with social media posts like tweets. While some automation tasks are limited by website restrictions, Comet still streamlines many routine online activities. The AI assistant also integrates with Google Calendar to help manage meetings and can perform complex multi-step tasks, although some features like detailed step tracking and screenshot saving are currently limited.
A notable feature is the AI assistant’s ability to take control of the browser to perform actions like clicking links and navigating pages, then relinquishing control back to the user once tasks are complete. This interaction model hints at a future where users delegate complex workflows to AI agents running in parallel, significantly reducing manual effort. The video also touches on the potential for such agents to filter through the increasing noise of AI-generated content, improving signal quality and user focus.
Overall, the video expresses optimism about Comet’s vision of AI-driven browsing as a glimpse into the future of internet interaction. While acknowledging some current limitations and occasional failures, the presenter is excited about the possibilities for automation, efficiency, and a fundamentally different browsing experience. Viewers are encouraged to try Comet themselves and share their thoughts, as the technology continues to evolve.