Comet lands on Android: AI search just got mobile
Perplexity’s AI browser Comet is now live on Android, giving mobile users a taste of AI-powered search and productivity directly in their pockets. After its desktop debut in July, Comet’s Android launch means you can now set Perplexity as your default search engine, ask questions across multiple tabs, and even get real-time summarizations using voice - all in one place.
The Android app isn’t holding back on features. You get:
- Tab-aware AI assistant: Mention open tabs or use voice mode to ask questions about what you’re browsing. The assistant can summarize content from all tabs at once, making research lightning fast.
- Built-in ad blocker: Privacy and focus come standard, thanks to an integrated ad blocker right out of the box.
- Automated research and shopping: The Comet assistant can perform research or online shopping on your behalf. You can monitor and review every action the AI takes for transparency.
Comet isn’t just a static release. Perplexity has promised a steady stream of updates: a conversational agent that can search across sites, shortcuts for quick actions, and a full-featured password manager are all in the pipeline. On desktop, the Comet Assistant recently got a boost to handle longer, more complex tasks like moving website data into spreadsheets, signaling that the mobile version will keep pace with power-user workflows.
Why Android first?
While iOS is on the roadmap, Perplexity is prioritizing Android. The reason? Demand from carriers and device manufacturers who want Comet preloaded on their hardware. Earlier this year, Perplexity partnered with Motorola to bundle its app, but it’s still unclear if Comet itself will be baked into upcoming devices.
The mobile AI browser race is heating up. OpenAI, Opera, and The Browser Company (now part of Atlassian) have launched AI browsers, but most focus on desktop. Arc Search has a mobile app, but updates are sparse. Meanwhile, Perplexity is doubling down on mobile, betting that on-the-go AI search will win over users from Chrome and Safari.
Security still front and center
AI-powered browsers open new possibilities but also new vulnerabilities. Security experts have flagged risks around AI agents, and Perplexity is paying attention. The company has acknowledged in its blog that securing these next-gen agents will require a fresh approach to browser security from the ground up.
What’s next for indie hackers and AI builders?
- If you build products that rely on fast, context-aware search, Comet’s tab-mentioning and summarization features could be a game changer for research-heavy workflows.
- Ad blocking and privacy-first design will appeal to anyone frustrated with bloated mobile browsing.
- With upcoming features like a password manager and quick-action shortcuts, Comet is aiming to become an all-in-one productivity hub, not just a search tool.
Get the full details on the Perplexity Comet Android launch.
