Perplexity AI has officially launched its revolutionary Comet browser in India, but there’s a catch – it’s exclusively available to Pro subscribers for now. Indian-origin CEO Aravind Srinivas announced the launch on September 22, 2025, marking a strategic expansion into one of the world’s largest internet markets. This development follows our previous coverage of emerging AI browser technologies that are reshaping how users interact with the web.
Table of Contents
What Makes Comet Browser Different?
Unlike traditional browsers like Chrome and Safari that we’ve analyzed, Comet browser transforms web browsing from passive consumption to active, intelligent engagement. The AI-powered browser eliminates tab clutter by creating a unified “workspace” where users can interact with websites through natural language, similar to what we’ve seen in our comprehensive AI tools review.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| AI Assistant | Tasks automation via text commands | Book meetings, send emails, shop online |
| Unified Workspace | Replaces multiple tabs | Streamlined workflow, reduced distractions |
| Smart Summaries | Page content analysis | Quick understanding of web content |
The India Launch Strategy
Limited Rollout Approach
Perplexity’s Comet is currently available only on Mac and Windows devices for Pro subscribers, with Android pre-orders open on Google Play Store without a release date. This restricted launch strategy suggests the company wants feedback from premium users before wider accessibility.
Subscription Requirements
The Perplexity Pro subscription costs ₹17,000 annually ($200 USD), though Airtel customers can access it free for 12 months through a partnership deal. This pricing strategy aligns with trends we’ve covered in our Indian tech subscription market analysis, making Comet accessible to millions of Airtel’s 360 million customers at no additional cost.
Market Implications
Challenging Google’s Dominance
With over 750 million internet users and growing appetite for AI-driven tools, India represents a crucial market where browsing habits remain fluid. As detailed in our Google vs. emerging search engines comparison, Perplexity’s early entry could capitalize on users willing to shift from established browsers like Chrome or Safari.
CEO’s Indian Roots Advantage
Aravind Srinivas’s Chennai origins add symbolic weight to the company’s Indian ambitions, with the CEO hinting that “more new things” are coming in the following weeks. His journey from IIT Madras to leading a billion-dollar AI company mirrors success stories we’ve featured in our Indian tech entrepreneurs spotlight.
Technical Capabilities
Agentic AI Features
Comet broswer functions as an “Agentic AI browser,” meaning it can browse the web and perform tasks on users’ behalf through its integrated assistant. Users can ask Comet to compare products, plan trips, or handle complex research workflows through simple text commands.
Competitive Landscape
The Browser Company’s Dia browser offers similar AI-powered features, while OpenAI reportedly considers launching its own browser, making this a crowded but promising market. We’ve explored this competitive landscape in depth in our AI browser wars analysis.
Future Outlook
Expansion Plans
The company is in talks with phone manufacturers about pre-installing Comet on smartphones, potentially expanding reach beyond desktop users. Mobile integration could be crucial in India’s mobile-first internet ecosystem.
Privacy Considerations
While Comet promises enhanced productivity, users must grant significant access to their browsing data for full functionality, raising important privacy questions that could influence adoption rates.
Bottom Line
Perplexity’s Comet launch in India represents a bold challenge to traditional browsing paradigms. However, the Pro-only access and desktop-first approach may limit initial adoption. Success will depend on converting premium subscribers into advocates while addressing mobile accessibility and privacy concerns. For tech enthusiasts and professionals already using AI tools, Comet offers a glimpse into the future of intelligent web browsing.
The real test lies in whether Indian users will embrace this AI-first approach or stick with familiar browsers until wider accessibility arrives.
