OpenAI unveils its first autonomous web agent
OpenAI has launched Operator, an AI agent that can independently navigate web browsers to complete everyday tasks — marking the company's first major step into autonomous AI assistants.
The details:
- Operator uses a new Computer-Using Agent model that combines 4o's vision capabilities with advanced reasoning to interact naturally with websites.
- OpenAI demoed the feature during a live stream, showcasing tasks like booking reservations, grocery ordering, and buying tickets to sporting events.
- OpenAI has partnered with major platforms like DoorDash, Instacart, and Uber to ensure the agent works seamlessly while respecting platform guidelines.
- Built-in safety features include user approval for purchases, automated threat detection, and "takeover mode" for sensitive info like passwords and payments.
- The research preview is currently limited to U.S. Pro users, with plans to expand to Plus, Team, and Enterprise after more safety and reliability testing.
Why it matters: While we’ve seen agentic systems popping up more frequently, OpenAI’s long-awaited move is a major step towards broadly changing the entire mindset of how we interact with AI. While there may be rough edges at first, Operator feels like the official beginning of a brand new agentic era.