This week’s AI tip is about: OpenAI Operator
Yesterday OpenAI announced their new approach to AI agents called Operator.
OpenAI Operator is a groundbreaking AI agent that can autonomously perform web-based tasks through a browser interface, just like a human would.
Released on January 23, 2025, it’s currently available exclusively to ChatGPT Pro subscribers at operator.chatgpt.com.
Core Capabilities
Operator can handle various everyday tasks including:
- Booking restaurant reservations
- Ordering groceries
- Planning vacations
- Filling out online forms
- Purchasing tickets
Technical Foundation
The system is powered by Computer-Using Agent (CUA), built on top of OpenAI’s GPT-4o multimodal model. CUA operates by:
- Taking screenshots to analyze the screen
- Interacting with graphical user interfaces through clicking, typing and scrolling
- Breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps
- Self-correcting when it encounters errors
Key Features
Remote Operation
Unlike similar tools from competitors, Operator runs on OpenAI’s servers rather than the user’s local computer, enabling it to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Collaborative Approach
When Operator encounters challenges like CAPTCHAs, login requirements or payment details, it automatically pauses and requests user intervention. Users can take control of the remote browser at any point during task execution.
Business Integration
OpenAI has established partnerships with several major platforms including:
- DoorDash
- Instacart
- OpenTable
- StubHub
- Uber
Current Limitations
The system is still in research preview and has some restrictions:
- Cannot reliably handle complex tasks like detailed slideshow creation
- Has limitations with calendar management
- Will not perform certain high-stakes tasks such as financial transactions or email sending
