Perplexity AI, the company behind the rapidly evolving AI-powered Comet browser, is reportedly in active talks with major smartphone manufacturers to have Comet preinstalled on upcoming mobile devices, according to people familiar with the matter.
Described as the world’s first native intelligent browser, Comet by Perplexity combines traditional browsing with real-time information retrieval, voice interaction, and web automation; all powered by state-of-the-art artificial intelligence. The potential move to preinstall Comet directly onto smartphones could be a gamechanger in how users interact with the web, elevating browsing from passive search to active personal assistance.
Launched in 2024, Comet is Perplexity’s answer to the limitations of conventional browsing. While typical mobile browsers require users to manually search, read, and act on information, Comet uses contextual AI to perform searches, take actions, summarize data, and even navigate web interfaces on behalf of the user.
If successful, Comet could rival Safari, Chrome, and Samsung Internet as a preloaded mobile browser of choice; offering a deeply intelligent, assistant-enhanced experience that appeals to GenAI-savvy consumers.
Preinstallation of Comet would mark a bold new step in the increasing convergence of AI and day-to-day mobile usage.
Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas has previously hinted at "Comet becoming the new browser assistant standard for AI-native users." This preinstall strategy appears to be the next step in realizing that vision.
As AI becomes more integrated into user devices, preinstalled intelligent tools represent the next frontier for app partnerships. If finalized, this deal could position Comet as a serious contender in the mobile browser market, leapfrogging traditional search-first models.
Major smartphone launches are expected later this year from Xiaomi, OnePlus, Vivo, and Motorola, all of whom could be potential partners in the Comet rollout.