Amazon Blocks Perplexity’s AI Shopping Agent
mazon.com Inc. has sent a legal notice to Perplexity AI, ordering the startup to stop its AI shopping tool, Comet, from operating on Amazon’s platform. The retail giant claims that the AI-driven bot violates its terms of service and creates a poor shopping experience by attempting automated purchases through unauthorized means.
Dispute Over AI Shopping Automation
Perplexity’s Comet browser tool allows users to delegate shopping tasks to an AI agent capable of browsing products, comparing prices, and even completing purchases on websites like Amazon. The company says this innovation empowers customers with convenience and autonomy. However, Amazon argues that Comet circumvents standard access controls, leads to pricing inaccuracies, and misrepresents stock and shipping details — all of which risk damaging customer trust.
Legal Warning and Reactions
Amazon’s cease-and-desist notice accuses Perplexity of breaching computer fraud laws and using unauthorized login credentials to automate transactions. In response, Perplexity said Amazon’s move is an attempt to stifle competition and protect its own e-commerce ecosystem. The company added that it will review the legal threat while defending its right to develop consumer-friendly AI tools.
Wider Industry Implications
The clash comes amid a growing trend of AI-powered shopping assistants reshaping online retail. With companies like Amazon building their own AI tools such as “Rufus” and “Buy For Me,” the debate over open access versus platform control is intensifying. Industry experts believe this case could set a precedent for how AI-driven commerce interacts with established marketplaces in the coming years.
