Opera has unveiled Browser Operator, a new AI-powered assistant designed to perform tasks within the browser without relying on external cloud processing.
Unlike AI-driven assistants that operate through cloud-based virtual machines, Browser Operator runs locally on the user’s device, enhancing security and providing a more integrated browsing experience.
AI-Powered Task Execution Within the Browser
A demonstration video showcased the AI agent’s capabilities, including searching for socks on Walmart, booking football match tickets, and finding flights and hotels on Booking.com.
Opera plans to introduce the feature through its Feature Drop program, though specific details on its full functionality are yet to be disclosed.
A key aspect of Browser Operator’s potential lies in its ability to handle complex queries across multiple platforms.
For instance, whether it can compare flights from different airline websites dynamically remains unclear. Opera has yet to confirm if the AI agent is designed for cross-platform aggregation or if it will function within individual websites.
Enhancing Browsing Beyond Chatbots
Opera has previously integrated AI-powered tools that allow users to query webpage content. Browser Operator expands on this by introducing task execution and automation, making it more than just an informational assistant.
Instead of simply generating responses like a chatbot, it takes action within the browser, streamlining interactions such as filling out forms or navigating websites.
Privacy-Focused On-Device Processing
A key differentiator of Browser Operator is its privacy-centric approach. While many AI-powered browsing solutions rely on cloud-based processing, Browser Operator operates natively on the user’s device.
It processes tasks locally using the DOM Tree and browser layout data, eliminating the need to transmit sensitive information to external servers. This method not only enhances security but also improves speed by reducing reliance on external data transfers.
Efficient Task Execution Without Visual Processing
Unlike AI tools that rely on visual page analysis, such as taking screenshots or simulating user actions, Browser Operator interacts directly with a webpage’s structural elements.
This approach improves efficiency by avoiding unnecessary processing overhead. It also helps the AI bypass pop-ups, cookie notifications, and other browsing interruptions that might affect automated tasks.
AI Assistance with User Control
Browser Operator follows a “human-in-the-loop“ model, ensuring that users maintain full control over interactions.
While the AI can automate routine tasks, users can intervene at critical steps, such as form submissions, confirmations, or sensitive transactions. This approach prevents unintended actions and allows users to oversee the AI’s decisions in real time.
Opera’s AI Roadmap and Market Position
Opera continues to advance AI-driven browsing experiences through its AI Feature Drops program.
The introduction of Browser Operator aligns with the company’s vision of making web interactions more efficient by automating repetitive tasks such as shopping, booking, and data entry.
The launch of Browser Operator comes at a time when AI-powered browsing assistants are gaining traction.
OpenAI’s Operator, available to ChatGPT Pro users, takes a similar approach, while The Browser Company is working on Dia, a browser with agentic capabilities. Additionally, AI startup Perplexity is preparing to release Comet, a browser built around AI-driven search and automation.
With increasing competition in AI-assisted browsing, Opera’s focus on on-device execution and user control could distinguish Browser Operator from other solutions.
However, its effectiveness will ultimately depend on how well it handles real-world tasks and whether it offers a significant advantage over existing AI-powered browsing tools.
