ChatGPT Operator: How to Use & Master Operator Mode

ChatGPT Operator is OpenAI's agent that can perform tasks on the web using its own browser. Released in January 2025 as a research preview, Operator goes beyond generating text responses to actually executing browser-based workflows autonomously.

Operator is now integrated into ChatGPT as "agent mode." Access it through the dropdown in the composer. The standalone operator.chatgpt.com site has been shut down.

What is ChatGPT Operator?

ChatGPT Operator is an AI agent powered by Computer-Using Agent (CUA), a new model that combines GPT-4o's vision capabilities with reinforcement learning for reasoning. CUA interacts with graphical user interfaces by taking screenshots of web pages and performing actions like typing, clicking, and scrolling.

The system sees webpages through screenshots and interacts using all the actions a mouse and keyboard allow. It completes tasks without requiring custom API integrations, working directly with websites the same way humans do.

Operator launched as a research preview for ChatGPT Pro users in the United States. OpenAI designed it to learn from real-world usage and improve based on user feedback before expanding to Plus, Team, and Enterprise tiers.

Key Features of ChatGPT Operator

1. Multi-Tasking Proficiency

Operator handles repetitive browser tasks across multiple steps and pages. It can fill out forms, order groceries, create memes, or book reservations by navigating through required screens and inputting information.

You can run multiple tasks simultaneously by creating new conversations, similar to using multiple browser tabs. For example, order a custom product on Etsy while booking a campsite on Hipcamp.

2. All-in-one Integration

Operator works with any website through browser interaction rather than requiring specific API connections. It interacts with buttons, menus, and text fields that people see on screen, broadening AI utility without technical integration work.

OpenAI collaborates with companies like DoorDash, Instacart, OpenTable, Priceline, StubHub, Thumbtack, and Uber to ensure Operator addresses real-world needs while respecting established norms.

3. Advanced Problem Solving

When Operator encounters challenges or makes mistakes, it uses reasoning capabilities to self-correct. The model sets new state-of-the-art results on WebArena and WebVoyager, two key browser use benchmarks.

If Operator gets stuck and needs assistance, it hands control back to you. This ensures tasks proceed smoothly even when the agent faces situations beyond its current capabilities.

4. Customization Options

You can add custom instructions for all sites or specific ones. For example, set airline preferences on Booking.com or dietary restrictions for food ordering. Operator lets you save prompts for quick access on the homepage, ideal for repeated tasks like restocking groceries on Instacart.

Tasks are described in natural language. Simply explain what you want done, and Operator determines the necessary steps without requiring scripts or technical configuration.

5. Conversational Capabilities

Operator maintains conversation context throughout task execution. You provide additional instructions, change requirements mid-task, or ask questions about progress without restarting.

The agent proactively asks you to take over for tasks requiring login credentials, payment details, or CAPTCHA solving, ensuring you maintain control over sensitive operations.

Benefits of ChatGPT Operator

Operator provides practical advantages for routine web workflows:

• Automates repetitive browser tasks without writing code.

• Saves time on everyday tasks like form filling and comparison shopping.

• Runs multiple workflows simultaneously through separate conversations.

• Provides transparency by showing actions through screenshots.

• Allows takeover at any point for human verification.

• Opens new engagement opportunities for businesses through AI-powered customer experiences.

• Improves accessibility and efficiency of public sector workflows.

How Does ChatGPT Operator Work?

1. Input and Understanding

You describe the task you want completed. Operator interprets your request using the CUA model, identifies the goal, and determines what information it needs to proceed.

The system asks clarifying questions when requests are ambiguous. It also proactively requests your input at critical points like payment or login steps.

2. Task Execution

Operator launches a browser session and navigates to relevant websites. It takes screenshots of each page, analyzes the visual layout to identify interactive elements, and decides which actions to take based on the current page state and the overall task goal.

The agent executes actions one at a time, such as clicking buttons or typing in fields, then captures new screenshots to verify results. This loop continues until the task completes or requires your input.

3. Feedback and Learning

During execution, you can provide feedback or corrections through the conversational interface. Operator incorporates this feedback within the current session, adjusting its approach based on your guidance.

The system includes a dedicated monitor model that watches for suspicious behavior and can pause tasks if something seems off. This adds an extra safety layer against adversarial websites.

How to Use ChatGPT Operator

Step 1: Sign Up and Access Agent Mode

Access Operator through chat.openai.com with a ChatGPT Pro subscription. Select "agent mode" from the dropdown in the composer to start. Previously, Operator was available at operator.chatgpt.com, but it's now integrated directly into ChatGPT.

ChatGPT Pro costs $200/month and includes access to advanced features beyond standard ChatGPT Plus.

Select ChatGPT o1 Pro Model (Optional)

The o1 Pro model offers enhanced reasoning for complex tasks. While not required for Operator, it can improve performance on multi-step workflows requiring logical planning.

For simpler tasks like form filling or basic bookings, the standard agent mode handles them effectively.

Step 2: Choose Pre-defined Prompts

OpenAI provides example prompts covering common use cases like booking reservations, ordering delivery, or researching products. You can save your own prompts for quick access on the homepage, useful for repeated tasks.

Starting with examples helps you understand how to structure effective task descriptions and what level of detail Operator needs.

Step 3: Wait for Screenshots Process or Take Control of the

Operator

Once you submit a task, Operator begins execution and displays screenshots of its progress. You see the websites it visits and actions it takes in real-time.

The interface updates as Operator works through each step, providing transparency into its decision-making process.

Take Control Option Feature

You can take over control of the remote browser at any point. Operator is trained to proactively ask you to take over for tasks requiring login credentials, payment information, or CAPTCHA solving.

When in takeover mode, Operator does not collect or screenshot information you enter. This protects sensitive data like passwords and credit card numbers. After completing your manual steps, you can return control to Operator to continue the task.

On particularly sensitive sites like email or financial services, Operator requires close supervision through "watch mode," allowing you to directly catch potential mistakes.

Step 4: Start Using

Begin with simple tasks to understand how Operator interprets instructions. Try booking a restaurant reservation or searching for product information. Observe how it navigates websites and where it needs clarification.

Before finalizing significant actions like submitting orders or sending emails, Operator asks for approval. The system is trained to decline certain sensitive tasks, such as banking transactions or high-stakes decisions like job applications.

Where to Use ChatGPT Operator in the Real World?

1. Travel Planning

Operator can search flights, compare hotel options, and book restaurant reservations through OpenTable. 

It navigates booking interfaces, fills passenger information, and completes multi-step reservation processes across sites like Priceline.

2. Customer Support

Teams can use Operator to research customer issues by gathering information from support portals or documentation sites. It compiles relevant details into structured summaries, letting human agents focus on customer interaction.

3. Content Creation

Operator assists research by gathering information from multiple sources, checking facts, or finding relevant statistics. It navigates news sites, research databases, or industry reports to collect needed information.

4. Healthcare Assistance

Operator can help schedule appointments or find nearby medical facilities. Organizations like the City of Stockton are exploring how it can make enrolling in city services and programs easier.

Note that Operator should not be used for medical diagnosis or treatment decisions. It's useful for administrative tasks, not medical advice.

5. E-commerce Automation

Online retailers can use Operator to monitor competitor pricing, check inventory across suppliers, or research product specifications. Companies like Instacart benefit from Operator making processes like ordering groceries easier for customers.

6. Data Management

Operator can extract information from web-based dashboards, download reports, or compile data from multiple online sources. It handles the manual clicking required to access data in web interfaces without APIs.

7. Programming Support

Developers can use Operator to search documentation, check package repositories, or research error messages across multiple sources. It gathers technical information from various developer resources.

8. Market Research

Operator gathers publicly available information about competitors, market trends, or customer sentiment. It navigates review sites, industry reports, or public databases to compile research.

What Sets ChatGPT Operator Apart from Other AI Assistants?

Operator works directly with websites using screenshots and browser-based understanding, unlike assistants that rely only on text or APIs. It handles tasks on web pages much like a human would.

• Dynamic Adaptation: Adjusts to website changes automatically, so tasks continue even if layouts or APIs change.

  
  

• Human-in-the-Loop: Requests approval for sensitive actions and lets you take control at any time.

  
  

• Safety Layers: Detects prompt injections, monitors for suspicious activity, and ensures user control and transparent data handling.

This mix of adaptability, control, and safeguards makes Operator well-suited for managing live web tasks.

Your Next Move

ChatGPT Operator handles browser-based tasks, automating routine, multi-step processes while letting you intervene when needed.

It works best for tasks that are repetitive but don’t require complex judgment. Some interfaces, like slideshows or calendars, can be challenging, and improvements are planned for longer workflows.

Starting with small tasks is the simplest way to see how it fits into your workflow.

You can connect with us for guidance on integrating Operator into your existing workflows and systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ChatGPT Operator mode used for?

ChatGPT Operator (now called agent mode) allows you to automate browser-based tasks like filling out forms, ordering groceries, and booking reservations. It's designed to save time on repetitive everyday tasks by executing them autonomously while maintaining transparency and human oversight.

Do I need ChatGPT Plus to use Operator mode?

No, you need ChatGPT Pro to access agent mode (formerly Operator). Agent mode is available to Pro subscribers at $200/month. ChatGPT Plus subscribers do not have access to this feature. OpenAI plans to expand to Plus, Team, and Enterprise users in the future.

Can I customize tasks with Operator?

Yes, you can customize tasks with agent mode. Add custom instructions for all sites or specific ones, such as setting airline preferences on Booking.com. You can also save prompts for quick access on the homepage for repeated tasks like restocking groceries on Instacart.

What makes ChatGPT Operator different from regular ChatGPT?

Unlike regular ChatGPT, which responds to prompts with text, agent mode executes tasks autonomously by interacting with websites through a browser. It takes screenshots, clicks buttons, fills forms, and completes multi-step processes using the Computer-Using Agent (CUA) model, which combines GPT-4o's vision with advanced reasoning.

Is ChatGPT Operator secure for sensitive data?

Yes, agent mode includes multiple safety layers. When you turn off "Improve the model for everyone" in settings, your data won't be used for training. During takeover mode for sensitive information like login credentials or payment details, Operator does not collect or screenshot your inputs. You can delete all browsing data and past conversations with one click. The system also detects prompt injections and monitors for suspicious behavior.