Opera has unveiled its latest innovation, the Browser Operator, an AI-powered feature designed to perform various online tasks for users. Announced at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, this groundbreaking tool aims to transform the browsing experience by allowing users to delegate tasks through natural language commands, all while ensuring privacy and control.
Key Takeaways
AI-Powered Automation: The Browser Operator can execute tasks such as purchasing items and booking accommodations based on user requests.
User Control: Users maintain full control over the process, with the ability to monitor and cancel tasks at any time.
Privacy Focused: Operates natively within the browser, ensuring user data remains local and secure.
Preview Availability: Currently in preview mode, with a full launch expected soon as part of Opera's AI feature drop program.
A New Era of Browsing
For over three decades, web browsers have primarily served as gateways to the internet, providing access to information. However, Opera's Browser Operator marks a significant shift in this paradigm, evolving the browser from a passive tool into an active agent capable of completing tasks on behalf of users. Krystian Kolondra, Opera's EVP, stated, "Now it can [get things done for you]. This is different from anything we've seen or shipped so far."
How It Works
The Browser Operator allows users to communicate their needs in natural language. For instance, a user could request, "Find me a pair of pink running shoes from Nike in size 8.5," and the AI will handle the task, including searching, ordering, and navigating through the checkout process.
Task Execution: The AI can perform complex, multi-step tasks without requiring user intervention.
Real-Time Monitoring: Users can see what the Browser Operator is doing at any point, ensuring transparency and control.
Privacy and Security
One of the standout features of the Browser Operator is its commitment to user privacy. Unlike many AI solutions that rely on cloud processing, Opera's Browser Operator operates entirely on the client side. This means that user data is processed locally, reducing the risk of data breaches and ensuring that sensitive information remains secure.
No Cloud Dependency: The Browser Operator does not require a virtual machine or cloud server, which enhances security.
User-Centric Design: The AI interacts directly with the browser's core, allowing for faster and more efficient task execution.
Future Prospects
As the Browser Operator is currently in its preview phase, Opera plans to roll out this feature as part of its AI feature drop program in the near future. This innovation not only positions Opera as a leader in the browser market but also sets a new standard for how users interact with web technologies.
With the rise of AI in various sectors, Opera's Browser Operator could redefine online shopping and task management, making it easier for users to navigate the digital landscape without the burden of mundane tasks. As the technology matures, it will be interesting to see how it influences user behaviour and the broader market dynamics in the browser industry.
Sources
Opera unveils an AI agent that runs natively within the browser, TechCrunch.
Opera becomes the first major browser with AI-based agentic browsing during MWC, PR Newswire.
Opera unveils impressive preview of AI agentic browsing - see it in action, ZDNet.