In the evolving landscape of technology, early iterations of AI agents are beginning to surface. These innovative tools not only possess the capability to code and solve mathematical problems but can also undertake various tasks on behalf of users. Recently, Opera has unveiled its inaugural AI agent for its browser, aptly dubbed the Browser Operator.

The primary function of the Browser Operator is to alleviate mundane online duties, thereby conserving both time and user effort. For instance, it could assist in organizing your grocery orders or comparing hotel prices for an upcoming trip.

Krystian Kolondra from Opera states, “For over three decades, browsers have provided access to the web, but they have never efficiently executed tasks for users. This changes now.”

At present, the Browser Operator feature is in a “preview” phase. Opera assures that no personal or sensitive information is transmitted to external servers while the AI agent operates, and users are fully in control of the process. This functionality is crucial; nobody wants to face a grocery order filled with incorrect items.

Interacting with Browser Operator is simple and natural; for example, you can request, “Please find me the cheapest plane tickets from New York to San Francisco for August.” The AI then processes these commands and executes the necessary online steps.

If user input is required—such as entering payment information or login details—the Browser Operator pauses to allow manual intervention. Users can also pause the tool at any moment, preventing unwanted bookings or purchases.

Upcoming Feature Release

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As of now, the Browser Operator feature is not publicly available. However, once launched, it can be accessed through the Command Line interface or the sidebar in the browser, where users will also find Aria, Opera’s built-in AI. Opera has indicated that this feature will be made available soon as part of their upcoming suite of AI functionalities.

The concept is certainly appealing: executing online tasks such as searching for the best gadget prices or arranging hotel stays can be monotonous and time-consuming. If an AI can handle these tasks under human guidance, it would indeed prove invaluable.

Nonetheless, the success of this innovation hinges on its performance. While these tasks may be tedious, they also require precision. Should the Browser Operator misinterpret instructions or make frequent mistakes, users may revert to manual navigation and selection.

Although direct access to the function is currently unavailable, Opera’s demonstration video provides insight into its potential. The interface appears to be user-friendly and seamlessly integrates with the browser, enhancing user experience during task execution.

A particularly compelling example is the booking of sports event tickets: you can specify your desired dates, seating preferences, budget, and type of tickets needed. Provided Browser Operator comprehends your input and navigates the relevant websites effectively, this could save substantial time.

Additionally, as the AI operates, it provides ongoing updates about its actions, allowing users to monitor the process and step in if necessary, ensuring that mistakes are avoided.

Opera is not the sole player in this arena; recently, ChatGPT launched its own Operator tool, designed to perform web tasks. Similar to Opera’s offering, this service is currently in a preview phase and exclusive to users subscribing to its $200-a-month Pro plan.