Perplexity AI Unveils Free Global Comet Browser

Perplexity AI, the generative search startup challenging Google, has launched its Comet browser globally for free, accelerating its push into the “agent-first” era of computing. The move reflects the bold vision of CEO Aravind Srinivas, who at just 31 has amassed a fortune worth over ₹21,190 crore ($2.5B) by reimagining search through AI.

Srinivas’s foundation is built on deep expertise. An IIT Madras graduate with advanced research at Stanford, he worked at OpenAI, DeepMind, and Anthropic before co-founding Perplexity in 2022. His idea: a “search index for AI” where conversational agents provide accurate, cited, real-time answers instead of simple link lists. This model has propelled Perplexity’s rapid growth and valuation.

Comet is central to this strategy. Unlike traditional browsers, it is designed as a native AI assistant that can search, organize tabs, draft emails, and execute complex tasks. Initially exclusive to premium subscribers, the browser is now free, tapping into massive demand and a waitlist of millions.

Competition is fierce, with Google integrating Gemini into Chrome, Anthropic building browser agents, and OpenAI launching Operator. Perplexity’s strategy is to commoditize the browser layer, making its AI index the true competitive moat.

To strengthen sustainability, Perplexity has introduced revenue-sharing with publishers and a Comet Plus subscription, featuring trusted content from CNN, Condé Nast, and The Washington Post.

For Srinivas, India is pivotal—with its vast English-speaking base, proven demand via Airtel, strong engineering talent, and potential government AI initiatives, it is the launchpad for building a truly global AI powerhouse.