Artificial intelligence continues to revolutionize the way we interact with computers. Two giants stand out in this technological race: OpenAI, with its AI agent named Operator, and Anthropic, with its Computer Use system.

These innovations mark a major turning point in productivity and the automation of complex tasks. But what differentiates these two solutions?

Openai operator vs anthropic computer use la bataille des agents ia

OpenAI Operator: The all-in-one virtual assistant

Launched on January 24, 2025, Operator is designed for ChatGPT Pro subscribers in the United States. It is based on an optimized version of the GPT-4 model, called GPT-4o, and uses CUA (Computer-Using Agent) technology. The latter enables the agent to view and interact directly with web interfaces.

Operator’s main features:

  • Autonomous web browsing: an AI that searches the Internet like a human user.
  • Human interaction with interfaces: understands and manipulates websites using screenshots.
  • Advanced reasoning: step-by-step reasoning with clarification capability.
  • Enhanced security: user control for sensitive actions.

In practice, Operator acts as a true digital teammate capable of handling tasks such as booking tickets or automating online processes, without requiring specific APIs.

Anthropic Computer Use: flexible AI for developers

Deploying in December 2023, Computer Use is based on the Claude 3.5 Sonnet model and offers a containerized environment designed for interaction with desktop tools.

Computer Use highlights:

  • Containerized environment: creates an isolated framework for specific tasks.
  • Predefined tools: easier interactions thanks to standard configurations.
  • Intuitive web interface: perfect for developers looking to integrate complex workflows.

In contrast to Operator, Anthropic focuses on flexibility, allowing developers to customize their environment to meet a variety of needs. This makes it a preferred solution for enterprises and technical professionals.

Comparative table: OpenAI Operator vs. Anthropic Computer Use

Here is a complete table comparing OpenAI Operator and Anthropic Computer Use, including technical data and benchmarks:

FeatureOpenAI OperatorAnthropic Computer Use
Launch dateJanuary 24, 2025December 2024
AI modelGPT-4o (optimized version of GPT-4)Claude 3.5 Sonnet
Key technologyCUA (Computer-Using Agent)Containerized environment
User interfaceIntegrated cloud browserWeb interface for interaction
AccessibilityChatGPT Pro subscribers in the U.S.United StatesVia API for developers
Interaction with environmentAutonomous web browsingPredefined tools in a provided environment
Step-by-step, advanced chain of thoughtGuided by system prompts
SecurityUser control for sensitive actionsWarns against risks of prompt injection
Flexibility for developersLess flexible, more integratedMore flexible, customizable environment
Target audienceGeneral public (end users)Developers and enterprises
Benchmark WebVoyager87% success rateNot available
Benchmark WebArena58,1% success rateNot available
Benchmark OSWorld38.1% success rate (record)14.9% on screenshot-based tasks
Benchmark SWE-bench VerifiedNot available49,0%
Benchmark TAU-benchNot availableAlmost 10% improvement in some areas
Specific technical capabilities– On-screen pixel analysis
– Direct interaction with graphical interfaces		– Operation on computers similar to humans
-. Containerized environment
Current limitations– Difficulties with complex interfaces
– Limited to use via browser
– Premium subscription required ($200/month)		– Experimental phase
– Difficulties with nuanced tasks
Availabilityoperator.chatgpt.com (US only)API Anthropic, Amazon Bedrock, Google Cloud Vertex AI
Main strengthsAutonomous web browsingCoding and interaction with operating systems

Benchmark performance: where do we stand?

OpenAI Operator:

  • WebVoyager: 87% success rate.
  • WebArena: 58.1%.
  • OSWorld: New record with 38.1% success rate.

Anthropic Computer Use :

  • OSWorld: 14.9% (screenshot only).
  • SWE-bench Verified: 49%, compared with 33.4% previously.
  • TAU-bench: 10% improvement in certain scenarios.

These results show that Operator excels in standalone online tasks, while Computer Use stands out in environments requiring interaction with desktop systems.

Security and control: A priority for both systems

OpenAI Operator emphasizes security by letting the user confirm sensitive actions, thus avoiding potential errors. For its part, Anthropic Computer Use warns against the risks of prompt injection and recommends rigorous practices for developers.

Implications for the future of AI agents

These two systems pave the way for AI assistants capable of executing complex actions. As Ali Farhadi, CEO of the Allen Institute for AI, points out:

“Moving from text generation to the execution of concrete actions is the right direction.”

However, these tools are still in development. Their widespread adoption could transform sectors such as customer service, e-commerce and data management.

Two visions of the future

In summary, OpenAI Operator is aimed at a broad audience, offering a turnkey experience, while Anthropic Computer Use prioritizes flexibility and adaptability for developers. These solutions could converge in a hybrid approach, but one thing is certain: they are redefining the role of virtual assistants.

What do you think of these innovations? Leave a comment to share your point of view!

FAQ:

1. What is OpenAI Operator?
Operator is an OpenAI AI agent that uses GPT-4o to interact directly with web interfaces.

2. What model does Computer Use use?
Anthropic is based on the Claude 3.5 Sonnet model.

3. What are the main benefits of Operator?
Autonomous web navigation, advanced reasoning and enhanced user control.

4. Why Computer Use is popular with developers
It offers a containerized environment and customizable tools.

5. What benchmarks are available for these tools?
Operator sets a record on OSWorld (38.1%), while Computer Use reaches 49% on SWE-bench Verified.

6. Are these technologies available in Europe?
Operator is limited to the U.S., while Computer Use is accessible via global API.

7. How much do these solutions cost?
Operator requires a $200/month subscription, Computer Use is accessible via API, price on request.

8. Are both tools secure?
Yes, both prioritize security with approaches tailored to their target audience.

9. Who are the target users?
Operator is aimed at the general public, while Computer Use is aimed at businesses and developers.

10. Are these technologies ready for mass adoption?
They are still experimental, but constantly improving.