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The Evolution of AI Browsers and the Future of Smart Assistants
We are currently in a transformative phase of the AI era, where major tech companies are not only developing more advanced large language models but also laying the groundwork for the next stage: smarter AI chatbots integrated into our everyday devices. These chatbots will function as super assistants, understanding user needs and delivering relevant information seamlessly.
This AI experience could involve tasks such as retrieving data from personal communications, purchasing gifts in time for holidays, or planning spontaneous trips. When combined with work-related tasks that AI can handle, it becomes clear that the future of AI computing is moving toward highly personalized and efficient assistance.
To achieve this, we need AI operating systems—mobile operating systems with AI deeply embedded, enabling them to interact with and control every application. Before reaching that stage, however, we must first see the development of AI-infused browsers with built-in AI chatbots. This isn’t just about accessing tools like Gemini or ChatGPT; it’s about having an AI assistant that is always active and aware of your online activities.
Some of the leading players in AI are either creating their own AI browsers or launching new ones. OpenAI is working on an AI browser centered around ChatGPT, while Perplexity has introduced Comet, its new AI browser built on the same technology as Google Chrome.
As a long-time ChatGPT user, I find AI browsers exciting, but I’m unlikely to use Comet anytime soon—not because of the price, but due to other concerns.
Understanding the Cost of Comet
Perplexity is a well-known name in the tech world, offering an AI-powered alternative to traditional search engines like Google. Its services can be accessed through a website or mobile app. However, using Perplexity within Chrome is different from using Comet, which integrates Perplexity AI directly into the browser.
With Comet, the AI is always ready and aware of what you’re doing online. You don’t have to switch tabs or open the ChatGPT app to ask questions. Instead, you can simply ask questions without any manual copying or pasting.
According to CEO Aravind Srinivas, Comet transforms browsing sessions into seamless interactions, collapsing complex workflows into fluid conversations. You can ask Comet to book meetings, send emails, buy forgotten items, or brief yourself for the day. This level of convenience is impressive, and many users would welcome such a tool.
Comet is currently available to Perplexity Max users, who pay $200 per month to access it. While it may eventually become more widely available, the high cost is one reason I wouldn’t consider using it.
The Privacy Concerns Surrounding Comet
When visiting the Comet website, you’ll see its mission statement and values, which include being “Personal,” “Powerful,” and “Productive.” However, there is no mention of privacy. Comet is based on Chromium, so it supports the same extensions as Google Chrome. Like Chrome, it likely tracks user activity, raising significant privacy concerns.
Srinivas previously mentioned that Perplexity plans to use data from user interactions to build better profiles, including tracking purchases, hotel bookings, and restaurant visits. This data could be used for targeted advertising, following the same model as Google and Meta.
While these companies often try to present strong privacy policies, the reality is that they still collect vast amounts of user data. I am concerned that AI browsers might follow the same path, using advanced tools to mine data for commercial purposes.
The Broader Implications for AI Browsers
The question remains: Will OpenAI take a similar approach? It’s possible, as owning a browser opens up a huge revenue stream. However, ads don’t necessarily require hyper-personalization. I’m unwilling to use any personal AI assistant if it means my data is being mined for profit.
As the AI landscape continues to evolve, the balance between convenience and privacy will be crucial. Users deserve transparency and control over their data, especially when it comes to AI-powered tools that are becoming increasingly integrated into daily life.
