Opera’s AI-powered browser operator can make purchases and book trips

Norwegian browser company Opera has unveiled a new AI agent called Browser Operator that can complete tasks for you on different websites. The idea is that Browser Operator can operate some tedious online tasks for a user, saving them time and clicks. For example, it could arrange the next grocery order, check out hotel prices in a place, and subsequently provide information regarding tariffs and airfare.

Opera’s Browser Operator: Key details

According to Krystian Kolondra, EVP at Opera, "For more than 30 years, the browser gave you access to the web, but it has never been able to get stuff done for you. Now it can. This is different from anything we've seen or shipped so far." Kolondra continues, "The Browser Operator we're presenting today marks the first step toward shifting the role of the browser from a display engine to an application that is agentic and performs tasks for its users."

Currently, in the preview release, the Browser Operator AI tool processes user commands locally, ensuring personal data remains on the device, instead of being hosted on a cloud or virtual machine. However, it pauses for user input when sensitive information is required, maintaining user control throughout the process for sensitive tasks like payments or entering login passwords.