TLDR: Perplexity AI has launched Comet, a new AI-powered browser that enables users to order food directly from restaurants using AI prompts, bypassing traditional delivery apps to reduce costs. Additionally, Comet automates various LinkedIn tasks, aiming to transform conventional web browsing into an ‘AI operating system’ that executes everyday tasks through natural language commands.
Perplexity AI has unveiled its innovative new browser, Comet, which is set to redefine online interactions by integrating advanced artificial intelligence capabilities directly into the browsing experience. According to Perplexity AI’s co-founder and CEO, Aravind Srinivas, Comet now allows users to order food directly from restaurants using simple AI prompts, effectively sidestepping third-party delivery aggregators. This feature is designed to offer a more cost-effective solution for consumers by eliminating the additional fees often associated with delivery apps.
Srinivas highlighted this food ordering capability as a user-discovered use case, emphasizing its potential to reduce friction and costs. He stated, ‘Use Comet to order food directly from the restaurant (e.g., Chipotle) instead of an aggregator delivery app. Cheaper. Friction of having to deal with random websites gone. And you still get the same meal delivered.’
Beyond food ordering, Comet extends its AI prowess to professional networking. The browser can automate various tasks on LinkedIn, including sending personalized messages, generating posts, and searching for specific individuals. This automation aims to streamline professional activities and enhance user efficiency.
Comet is envisioned by Srinivas as an ‘AI operating system’ that will execute daily tasks in the background through natural language commands, significantly minimizing the need for manual input. Unlike traditional browsers that rely on passive, tabbed navigation, Comet functions as an active AI assistant, capable of thinking, acting, and making decisions on behalf of the user. Users can prompt Comet to summarize webpages, compare products, translate content, or perform follow-up actions all within a single interface, eliminating the need to switch between multiple tabs or tools.
The launch of Comet intensifies the competition in the burgeoning field of AI-powered browsers. A Reuters report from July 9 indicated that OpenAI is also developing an AI browser product, signaling a growing challenge to established players like Google in the search and advertising markets. Despite this, Srinivas remains unconcerned about competition from tech giants such as OpenAI, Google, or Anthropic. He asserted, ‘It takes time to build something like this. They can’t win in every sector.’
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Currently, Comet is in an invite-only beta phase, with Perplexity AI planning to roll out more features in the near future.
