OpenAI’s Operator can browse the web and perform actions for you

OpenAI’s new U.S.-only tool “operates” the web for you
Jan 24, 20251:39 PM EST
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OpenAI, the ChatGPT maker, released a new feature called Operator. This feature allows you to access the web and perform tasks for yourself. It’s worth noting that it’s only available for Pro users in the U.S. for now.

The OpenAI Operator uses AI to look at webpages and interact with them by typing, clicking, and scrolling. It is currently only in preview and has limitations, but it will evolve and change based on user feedback. The operator is capable of doing work for the user independently; give it a task, and it’ll do it.

Operator works by seeing screenshots and interacting with these screenshots by using actions a mouse and keyboard can perform, enabling it to take action without requiring any custom API integrations.

Additionally, OpenAI says that the Operator can self-correct if it encounters challenges or mistakes. It can give the user control if it gets stuck and needs assistance.

Operator is powered by a ‘Computer-Using Agent (CUA) model.’ This uses GPT-4o’s vision capabilities and offers advanced reasoning through reinforcement learning. Additionally, the CUA is trained to interact with graphical user interfaces like the buttons, menus, and text fields people see on their screens. It can perform actions like ordering groceries, filling out forms and creating memes. Operator only works in its own browser.

OpenAI says it’s starting small by launching this for Pro Users in the U.S. It’ll take what it learns from its users before expanding further. It’s unclear, though, if it plans to expand outside of the U.S.

Google is reportedly working on a similar feature called Project Mariner, which rolled out to trusted testers in December.

You can learn more about Operator, here. 

Header image credit: Shutterstock

Source: OpenAI

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