Perplexity AI CEO Predicts Major Job Disruption Soon
A Bold Prediction for the Future of Work
A recent declaration from Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas sent shockwaves through the corporate world. Srinivas boldly claimed that his company's new AI powered browser, Comet, and similar technologies are set to make the roles of recruiters and executive assistants largely redundant within a very short timeframe.
Introducing Comet The AI Operating System
Perplexity, already known for its conversational AI search engine that provides direct, cited answers, is now entering the web browser market with Comet. This isn't just another browser; Srinivas envisions Comet as a complete AI operating system designed for white collar workers. It features tight integration with key platforms such as Gmail, Google Calendar, and LinkedIn.
During a recent appearance on the Decoder podcast, Srinivas explained a vision where Comet could manage entire workflows with minimal human oversight. He claimed that a recruiter's week long process—from sourcing and outreach to follow-ups and scheduling—could be condensed into a single prompt. The AI tool is designed to proactively track responses, update spreadsheets, sync calendars, resolve conflicts, and even prepare meeting briefs. Likewise, for executive assistants, Comet has the ability to handle meeting management, email sorting, and document preparation using simple natural language commands.
Perplexity's Ambitious Market Strategy
This forward thinking outlook puts Comet in direct competition not only with traditional browsers like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Apple Safari, but also with emerging AI agents from OpenAI and other major players. Perplexity, which recently secured $500 million in funding, is reportedly in talks with smartphone manufacturers to pre-install Comet. This move could expand its reach from a few hundred thousand beta testers to millions of users by next year.
Currently, Comet is in an invite-only beta, primarily accessible to premium Perplexity users. However, the company has indicated plans to expand access to free users, though its advanced AI powered features may remain behind a paywall.
The Human Element Adapting to AI Evolution
As detailed in The Verge's podcast coverage, Srinivas's predictions raise immediate questions about job displacement, even if they are exciting for AI fans. He acknowledges that the rapid evolution of AI, with breakthroughs happening every "three months or six months," can be overwhelming. However, he also stresses the importance of adaptation, urging people to "spend less time doom-scrolling on Instagram" and instead invest time in learning new AI tools. His comments echo recent sentiments from NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang, who believes that fresh ideas allow humans to create new jobs that can coexist with artificial intelligence.
