Perplexity will bring its AI-powered web browser to iPhone on March 11, 2026. The app is already on Mac and is now open for preorder in the App Store. The iPad build is not ready yet. The iPhone release is set to arrive first.
Comet puts an AI assistant inside the browser. That assistant reads webpages, answers questions, and writes summaries on demand. The company positions Comet as a research and work tool more than a social feed or video app.
How it Works
Open a page and ask the AI about the content. The browser can pull quotes, show sources, and make short summaries. Users can follow up with more questions. The assistant remembers recent steps and can dig deeper across multiple pages.
On Mac, Comet runs from a Chromium base and lets users import bookmarks and extensions. On iPhone, the browser must follow Apple rules for web engines. The app will still offer the built-in AI features on top of the browser view.
Users may choose which AI model powers answers. The app lists models from different providers. That option lets a user prefer one model for certain tasks and switch to another for other work.
Costs and Options
Comet is free to download. The app offers in-app purchases that add more power and priority access. A low-cost plan gives access to stronger models for complex questions. A higher tier offers priority access to new features and advanced reasoning tools for deep investigations.
Perplexity will keep a free tier for basic use and research. Paid plans aim at students, researchers, and professionals who need high accuracy and large-scale sourcing.
Adapting AI for iPhone Use
When the browser uses a cloud model, some queries go to external services. Perplexity says the app gives options about which models to use. Users who value local privacy should check model settings and account rules.
On iPhone, the app may not run third-party extensions the same way Mac does. The small screen also changes how menus and results are shown. The team will adapt the interface for phone-sized use.
Comet Brings Research to Mobile
Comet can change how people search on the phone. Asking the web to explain a paper or to compile sources can save time. The app is aimed at people who want a research-focused browsing flow rather than a social feed.
The success of the iPhone build will depend on how well Perplexity balances speed, privacy, and cost. It will also depend on how smoothly the company adapts the Mac features for touch and for the smaller screen.