I'm working on a project where I need to find a way to detect certain AI browsers, specifically Atlas and Comet. The challenge I'm facing is that these browsers don't have unique user agents; they mask themselves as standard Google Chrome, even avoiding any indication that they're based on Chromium. I've tried comparing various properties, including vendors, brands, and headers, but I'm not seeing any differences that would help me distinguish between a regular Chrome user and an Atlas or Comet user. I'm looking for suggestions on other client or server-side workarounds that might help me identify these browsers.
3 Answers
Have you considered using hidden elements or prompts? Like, adding a hidden div that suggests users click something a few times? It might sound silly, but it could be a workaround to see if anything triggers that wouldn't in normal browsers.
You could look into checking for webdriver flags or use fingerprinting techniques like canvas or webgl to see if they can be distinguished that way. However, these AI browsers are made to avoid detection. It might be more effective to analyze user behavior, such as the timing of clicks or mouse movements, if that fits your needs. What's the specific issue you're trying to tackle?
Honestly, it seems like it might be really tough to tell them apart since they're designed to blend in with regular Chrome. Some say they're essentially just Chromium, so good luck finding a definitive way to detect them.
That feels a bit off, right? I mean, how is it okay for these companies to market their products as Chrome when they're not fully transparent? They should at least show as Chromium!

That's an interesting idea! Fighting AI with AI—maybe that's the key. But I'm still trying to figure out how to identify Atlas users just like that, with no distinct user agent.