Can Perplexity’s Comet Dent Chrome’s Reign?

Can Perplexity’s AI Browser ‘Comet’ Chip Away at Google Chrome’s 68% Dominance?

Key Takeaway: Chrome still commands a ~68% global share, but Perplexity’s Comet is landing at just the right moment. With skyrocketing queries and OEM deals in the works, Comet could become a real challenger—especially if regulators clip Chrome’s wings.

The AI-first Browser Moment

Google built Chrome atop the Chromium engine. Now, AI-first competitors like Perplexity’s Comet, Arc’s “Dia”, and Microsoft’s Edge Copilot are betting on built-in assistants. Comet is essentially a “cognitive OS”: summarizing pages, automating emails, even booking calendars.

Why Timing Matters

• Chrome's growth has plateaued near 68% global share.
• Users increasingly favor answers over links—perfect for AI browsers.
• U.S. vs. Google may push Chrome to be split off—Perplexity has expressed interest in acquiring it.
• Perplexity processed over 780 million queries in May 2025—a 20% MoM growth spike.

Browser Market Share – June 2025

Browser	Global Share (%)
Chrome	68.35%
Safari	16.25%
Edge	4.96%
Firefox	2.37%
Samsung Internet	2.04%
Opera	1.85%

Growth Trajectory: Chrome vs. Perplexity

Figure: Chrome remains stable while Perplexity’s AI search traffic grows 3× in 6 months.

Challenges for Comet

1. Default lock-in: Chrome has built-in distribution on Android—Comet must partner with manufacturers.
2. Privacy concerns: AI browsers need user context; Comet uses local storage and opt-out privacy by default.
3. Monetization: While Chrome is ad-driven, Perplexity relies on paid plans like Max Tier and future paid models.

Opportunities Comet Can Harness

• Agentic browsing: One-click automation—summarize, schedule, reply—all built-in with an AI assistant.
• Antitrust shakeups: If Chrome is forced to spin off, default browser deals come into play.
• OEM Deals: Even one Android OEM could put Comet in the hands of 50 million+ users.

Frequently Asked Questions

🤖 What are the key features of Comet?

Comet includes a built-in Perplexity AI assistant, page summaries, autofill tools, voice and keyboard LLM interfaces, and Chrome extension compatibility.

🔌 Will Comet support existing extensions?

Yes. Since Comet is Chromium-based, most Chrome extensions work out of the box.

🔒 How does AI affect privacy?

Comet offers on-device data storage, no training from your content unless opted-in, and transparent memory management.

⚖️ Could Google be forced to spin off Chrome?

Yes — U.S. antitrust actions may lead to a Chrome divestiture. Perplexity has expressed interest in acquiring it if this happens.

📲 Will Comet launch on Android or iOS?

Currently in closed desktop beta; Android APK expected by Q4 2025 pending OEM deals. iOS will follow starting 2026.

Final Thoughts

Chrome’s decade-long lead is no accident—but AI is rewriting the playbook. With Perplexity’s traction and Comet’s capabilities, the browser market may be on the cusp of its first true disruption in years.

Do you see yourself switching to an AI assistant-driven browser soon?

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