Perplexity Comet AI browser just fixed one of the biggest frustrations for tablet users: proper multitasking support. The latest update, released around late April 2026, brings native iPadOS multitasking features including multiple browser windows open simultaneously, a capability that has been absent from most AI browsing tools until now.
Key Takeaways
- Perplexity Comet AI browser now supports full iPad multitasking with multiple windows and split-view workflows.
- Update requires iPadOS 18.0 or later and is available now on the App Store.
- AI assistant sidebar can analyze content, summarize pages, draft emails, and automate tasks across multiple tabs.
- First agentic browser for iOS to properly leverage Apple’s tablet multitasking architecture.
- Free to download with no pricing mentioned for premium features.
What Perplexity Comet AI browser does differently
Perplexity Comet AI browser combines traditional web browsing with an integrated AI chatbot that acts as a personal assistant and thinking partner, designed to boost focus and streamline workflows. Unlike standard browsers that treat the AI as a separate sidebar tool, Comet embeds intelligence directly into the browsing experience, allowing users to analyze content, compare vendors, pull key details from documentation, and draft messages—all without leaving the browser window.
The assistant sidebar (accessed via Alt + A on desktop) supports autonomous navigation, meaning it can fill forms, schedule meetings, and compose emails based on your instructions. Voice Mode (Shift + Alt + V) enables hands-free browsing for users who want to dictate commands while researching. On iPad, these features now work smoothly across multiple windows, transforming how tablet users approach research and content analysis.
iPad multitasking transforms tablet browsing workflows
The new iPadOS multitasking support in Perplexity Comet AI browser addresses a critical gap in AI browsing tools. Until this update, iPad users had limited ability to run multiple browser windows simultaneously, forcing them to switch between tabs rather than view multiple sources side-by-side. With native multitasking support, users can now open several Comet windows, each with its own AI assistant context, enabling efficient workflows like document retrieval, online learning, vendor comparison, and research synthesis.
One App Store reviewer praised the capability: “It is fantastic for deep dives where I have lots of sources open: I can have the assistant summarize pages, compare vendors, pull out key details from documentation, or draft messages and policies based on what I am looking at, all inside the browser”. This type of workflow—juggling multiple sources while leveraging AI analysis—is exactly what iPad’s multitasking architecture was designed for, yet most AI tools have failed to support it properly until now.
How Perplexity Comet AI browser differs from competitors
Perplexity Comet AI browser positions itself as the first agentic browser for iOS worth adopting, a distinction that matters because most AI browsing solutions on iPad lack true multitasking integration. On Mac, Windows, and Android, the agent browses directly within the app, giving it full control over navigation and content interaction. The iOS version uses a cloud-based virtual browser that temporarily transfers cookies for sessions before discarding them—a security measure imposed by Apple’s restrictions—but this architectural difference does not diminish the core value proposition for tablet users.
Perplexity has been aggressive in expanding its AI ecosystem across Apple devices. The company launched Comet on Mac first, then expanded to iPhone in March 2026, and now brings full iPad support in April 2026. This timeline shows deliberate platform expansion, positioning Perplexity as an early leader in the AI-browsing space while competitors still treat tablets as an afterthought.
Availability and system requirements
Perplexity Comet AI browser is free to download and update via the App Store. The multitasking update requires iPadOS 18.0 or later, so iPad owners running older versions will need to update their operating system first. The app integrates mainstream AI models from OpenAI and Anthropic, giving users flexibility in which AI backbone powers their browsing assistant.
Is Perplexity Comet AI browser worth trying on iPad?
If you regularly use iPad for research, online shopping, content analysis, or document review, Perplexity Comet AI browser’s multitasking support addresses a real pain point. The ability to open multiple windows and have the AI assistant analyze content across sources transforms iPad from a consumption device into a serious productivity tool. The free download means there is no financial risk to testing whether the workflow actually improves your productivity.
Can you use Perplexity Comet on older iPad models?
Perplexity Comet AI browser requires iPadOS 18.0 or later to access the new multitasking features. Older iPad models running earlier versions of iPadOS may not support the latest update, so check your device’s compatibility before downloading. You can verify this on the App Store product page for your specific device.
How does the iOS version of Comet compare to the Mac version?
The main difference is how the agent browses. On Mac, the agent navigates directly within the Comet app. On iOS and iPadOS, the agent uses a cloud-based virtual browser due to Apple’s platform restrictions, though this does not meaningfully impact the assistant’s ability to analyze content or perform tasks. Feature parity is strong—both versions offer the same sidebar intelligence, voice mode, and task automation capabilities.
Perplexity Comet AI browser finally gives iPad users what they have been asking for: an AI-powered browsing tool that respects how tablets are actually used. Multitasking is not a luxury on iPad—it is the foundation of efficient work. By supporting multiple windows natively, Comet closes a gap that has existed since AI browsers first arrived, making it worth a download for anyone serious about tablet productivity.
Where to Buy
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max | Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max | Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
This article was written with AI assistance and editorially reviewed.
Source: Tom's Guide
