Manus Introduces Browser Operator: An AI Layer That Automates Any Browser
Chinese startup Manus has unveiled Browser Operator, a new extension that transforms Chrome or Edge into a fully autonomous AI-powered browser without requiring users to install or configure any AI models. The tool works directly within the user’s own browser session, preserving cookies, logins, history, and ongoing authentication.AI That Operates Inside Your Existing Browser Session
Unlike traditional browser automation frameworks, Browser Operator runs from the user’s IP address and leverages the current browser state. This allows the AI to work with authenticated dashboards, email accounts, research tools, social platforms, internal company portals, and any website where the user is already logged in.The extension is currently in beta and available to users with Pro, Plus, and Team plans. Initial support includes Chrome and Edge, with more browsers planned for future releases.
Task Groups, Real-Time Execution, and Full User Control
Once activated, Manus creates a new tab grouped under the name of the task the user issued. Inside this tab, the AI begins performing the requested operations in real time. Users can observe every step, take manual control at any moment, or instantly terminate the process by closing the Manus tab.All actions are logged in detail, providing traceability and allowing users to review exactly how the task progressed. This design ensures transparency and avoids the black-box behavior typical of many autonomous agents.
Powered by Multi-Model Sub-Agents
Under the hood, Browser Operator uses multiple AI models organized into specialized sub-agents. The system integrates Anthropic Claude alongside customized versions of Alibaba’s Qwen models. Each agent is assigned different roles, such as planning, searching, reasoning, interacting with page elements, or performing API calls.This multi-agent architecture allows Manus to execute a wide range of tasks, from form submissions and research workflows to account management, data extraction, and step-by-step browser interactions.
Integration With Browser Use Framework
Browser Operator also incorporates the open-source Browser Use framework, which enables precise manipulation of webpages. This includes clicking elements, filling forms, navigating multi-step flows, analyzing DOM structures, scrolling dynamically, and interacting with UI components as if a human operator were performing the actions.The combination of multi-model intelligence and real-time DOM control positions Manus as a powerful alternative to both coding assistants and traditional automation tools.
A New Direction for AI Browsing
Manus is part of a growing trend toward on-device and in-browser AI agents capable of interacting directly with the live internet. By embedding intelligence inside the user’s authenticated browser session, the company aims to eliminate setup friction and enable automation that matches real-world workflows.If the beta proves stable, Browser Operator may become one of the first mainstream tools where general-purpose AI agents can operate the web on behalf of users with minimal intervention.
Editorial Team — CoinBotLab