Amazon Threatens Perplexity AI Over Shopping Feature
Perplexity AI has revealed it received a legal threat from Amazon demanding it block the AI agent on its Comet browser from shopping on Amazon’s platform on users’ behalf. The startup rejected Amazon’s claims, calling it an attempt to use market dominance to stifle competition.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon sent legal notice to Perplexity demanding removal of shopping feature
- Perplexity calls this “bullying” and threat to AI innovation
- Amazon claims the feature degrades shopping experience
- Conflict highlights broader debate over AI agent regulation
The Conflict Escalates
Perplexity accused Amazon of using “legal threats and intimidation to block innovation.” In a blog post, the company stated: “Bullying is when large corporations use legal threats and intimidation to block innovation and make life worse for people.”
Amazon countered that it repeatedly requested Perplexity remove the online retailer from Comet, citing “significantly degraded shopping and customer service experience.” The e-commerce giant argued third-party apps should respect businesses’ decisions on participation.
AI Browser Innovation vs Market Control
Perplexity is among AI startups reinventing web browsers to handle everyday online activities autonomously, including purchases. The Comet browser’s AI agent makes purchases and comparisons while storing user credentials locally.
Meanwhile, Amazon develops similar tools like “Buy For Me” for cross-brand shopping and “Rufus” AI for product recommendations. Perplexity claims Amazon’s move aims to protect its ad-driven business model, stating: “Easier shopping means more transactions and happier customers. But Amazon doesn’t care, they’re more interested in serving you ads.”
The clash highlights emerging debates about and how AI agents should interact with websites while respecting user choice and business boundaries.
