Prime Highlights:
OpenAI has introduced Operator, a general-purpose AI agent capable of autonomously completing tasks like booking travel, making reservations, and online shopping.
The research preview is available to U.S. users on the $200 Pro plan, with plans to roll out to other subscription tiers (Plus, Team, Enterprise) in the future.
Operator uses OpenAI’s Computer-Using Agent (CUA) model, combining the vision capabilities of GPT-4o with advanced reasoning abilities to interact with websites directly.
Key Background:
OpenAI has introduced Operator, its first major AI agent designed to autonomously complete tasks on behalf of users. Announced on January 23, 2025, this general-purpose AI agent is set to revolutionize the way people interact with the web. Available initially as a research preview, Operator is accessible to U.S. users subscribed to ChatGPT’s $200 Pro plan, with plans to expand to other subscription tiers, including Plus, Team, and Enterprise.
Powered by OpenAI’s Computer-Using Agent (CUA) model, Operator can take control of a web browser and perform tasks such as booking travel, making restaurant reservations, and shopping online. The AI’s capabilities extend across several categories, including shopping, delivery, dining, and travel, allowing users to automate various activities. A key feature of Operator is its ability to navigate websites, fill out forms, and interact with web interfaces as a human would, without relying on APIs.
Although the research preview is available through a dedicated portal (operator.chatgpt.com), OpenAI plans to integrate Operator into all ChatGPT clients in the near future. The AI’s functionality is intended to assist with routine tasks, while users can still maintain oversight. Operator’s design incorporates safety measures, such as requiring user confirmation before finalizing transactions and providing transparency by showing real-time task progress.
Despite its promising capabilities, OpenAI cautions that the CUA model is still in its early stages, and may not be reliable for all tasks. Complex scenarios like detailed presentations or intricate calendar management remain beyond its reach. For sensitive tasks like banking, users must provide additional supervision.
While AI agents like Operator hold great potential for transforming the way we interact with digital environments, OpenAI continues to prioritize safety. Operator includes several safeguards to prevent misuse, such as automated monitoring systems that detect suspicious activity. With Operator, OpenAI takes a significant step towards realizing the future of AI-driven task automation, positioning itself at the forefront of this emerging field.