OpenAI and Perplexity challenge Google

AI startups are trying to reclaim a portion of the search market from Google by offering their own browsers and encouraging users to abandon Chrome.

Browsers from Perplexity and OpenAI

The company Perplexity has launched its own AI-based web browser — Comet

Comet is here.

A web browser built for today’s internet.pic.twitter.com/cFPeghl2YM

— Perplexity (@perplexity_ai) July 9, 2025

The key feature of the tool is the built-in AI search system that summarizes the results of the query.

Additionally, users have access to the AI agent Comet Assistant, which is designed to automate routine tasks such as processing emails and calendar events, managing tabs, and navigating web pages on behalf of the user.

The digital assistant is available on any page in the sidebar. It sees the information on the screen and is ready to answer questions.

The product is initially available to subscribers of the Max plan for $200, as well as a small group of users from the waiting list.

Meanwhile, Reuters learned about OpenAI's plans to release its own AI-based web browser in the coming weeks. Instead of the usual navigation to websites, some actions will be performed directly in an interface similar to ChatGPT.

The OpenAI browser may receive the company's Operator AI agent as one of its main features, the agency reported.

Fighting Google

Users are actively shifting from traditional "googling" to searching in chatbots. In May, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, Eddy Cue, stated that the number of search queries in Safari declined for the first time in April. According to him, the company is considering an update to the browser with a focus on integrating artificial intelligence-based search engines.

AI startups are launching their own browsers to interact directly with users, bypassing Chrome — the most popular way to access the internet today.

Although AI reviewers are still "unexplored territory", Google is already taking steps in this direction. Recently, the company has added several artificial intelligence-based features, including AI Mode — a mode that allows users to ask more complex questions and receive detailed answers directly in search.

The Browser Company, previously behind Arc, announced a new web browser Dia focused on AI tools.

In April, OpenAI made a number of changes to the ChatGPT Search engine to make online shopping more convenient and faster.

Recall that in May, Opera introduced a new web browser called Neon with a focus on working with artificial intelligence. It is capable of acting as an AI agent — making purchases, filling out forms, and programming on behalf of the user.