Opera has introduced “Browser Operator,” a native AI agent designed to perform user-facing tasks directly within the browser.
The browser operator is not an extension to the browser itself, rather it is an extension. It is designed to empower users by automating repetitive tasks such as purchasing products, completing online forms, and collecting web content.
Unlike server-based AI integrations, which require sensitive data to be sent to third-party servers, browser operators process tasks locally within the opera browser.
Opera’s demo video shows how browser operators can streamline everyday tasks such as purchasing socks. Instead of manually scrolling through product pages or filling out payment forms, users can delegate the entire process to a browser operator.
Leveraging natural language processing driven by Opera’s AI Composer Engine, browser operators interpret written instructions from users and perform corresponding tasks within the browser. All operations occur locally on the user’s device and leverage the browser’s own infrastructure to complete commands safely and quickly.
If a browser operator encounters sensitive steps in the process, such as entering payment details or accepting an order, it pauses and requests user input. They also have the freedom to intervene and control the process at any time.
What every step browser operator takes is transparent and fully reviewable, allowing users to clearly understand how to perform tasks. If a mistake occurs – You can further instruct the AI agent to make corrections, such as placing an incorrect order, canceling an order or adjusting the form.
Key differentiators: privacy, performance, and accuracy
It is a localized privacy first architecture that distinguishes browser operators from other AI integration tools. Unlike competitors, which rely on screenshots and video recordings to understand the content of web pages, Opera’s approach uses Document Object Model (DOM) trees and browser layout data. This is a textual representation of a web page.
This difference offers several important advantages.
Faster task completion: Browser operators do not need to “display” and interpret pixels on the screen, or emulate mouse movements. Instead, it directly accesses web page elements, avoiding unnecessary overhead and allows for comprehensive processing of the page without scrolling. Privacy Enhanced: Due to all actions performed on the browser itself, user data including logins, cookies and browsing history remains secure on your local device. No screenshots, keystrokes or personal information will be sent to the Opera’s server. Easy interaction with page elements: AI engages elements hidden from the user’s view, such as behind cookie pop-ups and validation dialogs, allowing seamless access to web page content.
By allowing browsers to perform tasks autonomously, opera is taking a major step in “agenting” assistants who actively increase productivity, not just tools to access the Internet.
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