Why Perplexity’s Comet Browser Feels Like the First True AI Agent

A measured, context-aware AI agent that actually does the work, not just waits politely in a sidebar.

Just launched your new business and need resources to ace direct marketing at lower costs with higher ROI?

Check out Salesfully’s course, Mastering Sales Fundamentals for Long-Term Success, designed to help you attract new customers efficiently and affordably.

Explore more free courses

---

In a field crowded with me‑too AI enhancements, Perplexity’s Comet stands out by actually acting, rather than merely summarizing. While Safari might give you quick page summaries and Edge’s Copilot tucks itself into a sidebar, neither change what you’re doing as you browse. Comet, on the other hand, takes over—and automates.

Comet is built on Chromium and initially restricted to users on the Perplexity Max plan. Still, even in beta, its capabilities are clear and demonstrates how AI can integrate directly into browsing. Users report it managing grocery orders, organizing tabs, and even posting replies on social media via a headless task mode.

Inside its "sidecar" AI assistant interface, Comet doesn’t just inform—it navigates websites, reads context, handles workflows. It taps into Gmail, Google Calendar, and other services (when permitted) to fulfill tasks like email drafting or restaurant booking—all with minimal clicks.

Here’s one stat: Perplexity processed 780 million queries in a single month (May 2025), reflecting >20% month-over-month growth—approximately 30 million queries daily.

Another detail: privacy modes in Comet allow processing of emails or calendar tasks locally, a nod to enterprise-grade data protection and compliance. 

Clarity matters. Tom’s Guide notes that Comet “logs every step it takes, ensuring transparency and user confirmation before finalizing any transaction.” 

Comet’s automation also includes visual confirmation. In the latest versions, the browser takes screenshots during tasks, letting users see exactly what Comet saw or clicked—providing an essential layer of visibility for debugging and confidence.

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas frames the browser itself as “the best way to build agents,” given that it naturally houses context (logins, tabs, services), reasoning, and action. That vertical integration may redefine productivity. 

Summary: Comet isn’t just an AI add-on. It’s a fully integrated agentic browser—managing research, tasks, and even your email—without breaking rhythm.

Just launched your new business and need resources to ace direct marketing at lower costs with higher ROI?

Check out Salesfully’s course, Mastering Sales Fundamentals for Long-Term Success, designed to help you attract new customers efficiently and affordably.

Don't stop there! Create your free Salesfully account today and gain instant access to premium sales data and essential resources to fuel your startup journey.