On Thursday, OpenAI unveiled a new feature, dubbed Operator, that lets ChatGPT take control of a virtual browser to perform real-world tasks like ordering food or booking flights. But so far, it’s aimed at rich people.
The tool, currently available only to Pro subscribers ($200/month) in the U.S., marks the company’s first venture into autonomous web browsing.
It highlights the emergence of a tiered financial system, where those who pay more gain access to the best AI features. At the same time, lower-paying users are limited to less capable models with restricted functionality—arguably not that democratic.
The system works through operator.chatgpt.com, where users can ask ChatGPT to handle various online chores.
There have been some attempts to raise concerns about relying on OpenAI’s promise to not store sensitive data may seem like a bit of a red flag.
The feature is set for a broader rollout soon, with Plus subscribers next in line. Developers won’t be left out either—OpenAI plans to release Operator through its API in the coming weeks, potentially spawning a new generation of AI-powered automation tools.
OpenAI says more instances are coming beyond cloud web browsing control. The team said during their demonstration that they’re also working on expanding the roster of AI agents beyond the current general-purpose assistant.
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