The OpenAI Computer Use API offers a powerful solution for automating browser tasks and enhancing productivity. With this API, users can interact with web applications, complete repetitive actions, and streamline workflows effortlessly.
Whether you’re managing multiple tabs, filling out forms, or scraping web data, the OpenAI Computer Use API simplifies complex processes while saving time and effort.
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What is OpenAI Computer Use?
OpenAI Computer Use refers to a groundbreaking application of the Computer-Using Agent (CUA) model designed to perform tasks on behalf of users by interacting with computer and browser environments.
Combining the vision capabilities of GPT-4o with o1’s advanced reasoning, this tool can simulate human-like control over computer interfaces, enabling automation of repetitive tasks, such as clicking, typing, or filling out forms, in a continuous action-feedback loop.
It is made accessible through the Responses API and is currently in beta.
Key Features of OpenAI Computer Use
- Automates Repetitive Tasks: Simplifies complex workflows by performing actions like web navigation, data entry, and scrolling.
- Simulates Human Interaction: Executes commands such as clicks, typing, and screenshots seamlessly, mimicking human computer usage.
- Continuous Action-Feedback Loop: Receives prompts, performs tasks, captures updated states, and provides actionable feedback, repeating the process as needed.
- Supports Multiple Environments: Operates effectively in web-based and local system setups including browsers, virtual machines, or sandboxed environments.
- Safety Protocols Integrated: Includes safety checks such as malicious instruction detection and sensitive domain monitoring, ensuring risk mitigation.
How OpenAI Computer Use Works
Step 1: Sending Requests
Users begin by sending a request to the model, specifying tasks alongside an initial environment state. This could include input prompts or even screenshots for context.
Step 2: Receiving Suggested Actions
The model responds with suggested actions like clicks or text inputs, helping users proceed with their tasks effectively.
Step 3: Executing Actions
Developers use the provided API or frameworks like Playwright to implement the specified actions in the computer environment.
Step 4: Capturing the Updated State
After executing the action, a new screenshot of the environment is captured and shared with the model to continue the process.
Real-Life Examples
- Booking a Flight: Automate the process of searching for flights, filling in traveler details, and proceeding with checkout within a web browser.
- Data Entry and Form Filling: Save time by having the tool input repetitive information, such as survey responses or registration details, across multiple forms.
- Web Scraping and Monitoring: Collect and extract data from websites, updating records in real-time without manual intervention.
- Testing Web Applications: Automate testing workflows by simulating user interactions, such as button clicks, applying filters, or verifying page reloads.
With its advanced capabilities, OpenAI Computer Use serves as a versatile tool for simplifying digital workflows, reducing manual effort, and accelerating productivity in everyday tasks.
However, its usage must adhere to OpenAI’s safety practices to ensure ethical and secure deployment in various environments.
How to use Open AI Computer Use on Your Local Environment
To get started with OpenAI Computer Use on your local environment, you’ll need to ensure you have a few prerequisites in place. These will help set up a smooth and efficient workflow for your automation tasks.
Prerequisites:
- Install Python: Make sure Python is installed on your system. You can download the latest version from the official Python website.
- At Least 6GB of RAM: Ensure your system has a minimum of 6GB of RAM to smoothly handle operations and processes.
- Install pip: Confirm that pip, Python’s package installer, is set up on your system. pip typically comes bundled with recent Python versions.
- Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Set up an IDE like Visual Studio Code or any editor of your choice for writing and managing your scripts.
- Basic or No Coding Knowledge: OpenAI Computer Use is designed to be accessible, so even if you have minimal coding experience, you can still utilize its features effectively.
- Set Up .env File: Rename the
.env.examplefile to.envand add your OpenAI API key and organization key.
By preparing these essentials, you’ll be ready to install and interact with the OpenAI-powered tools in your local environment efficiently.
Installation & Run
To set up the OpenAI-powered Computer Use Assistant (CUA), follow these step-by-step instructions:
Download the Source Code
- Visit the GitHub repository at this link.
- Click the green Code button and select Download ZIP.
- Extract the downloaded ZIP file.
- Open the extracted folder in your preferred IDE.
Set Up the Python Environment and Install Dependencies
- Open a terminal in your IDE or navigate to the folder with the extracted source code.
- Run the following commands to create a virtual Python environment and install dependencies:
python3 -m venv env
source env/bin/activate
pip install -r requirements.txtInstall Playwright Compatible Browsers
- Install the necessary Playwright browsers by running:
playwright installRun the CLI with Playwright for Local Browsing
- Launch the CUA tool using a local browser window powered by Playwright with this command:
python cli.py --computer local-playwright- Use CTRL+C to stop the CLI when needed.
Start Using the Assistant
With the CUA running, type commands for it to browse. A new Chromium browser window will open for interaction.
Follow these steps to begin using the OpenAI-powered CUA effectively on your local machine!
How to use CUA Virtually?
CUA can also be used through Browserbase, a remote browsing solution that requires an account. To get started, ensure you have your Browserbase Project ID and API Key ready. These credentials will be added to your .env file so the tool can authenticate and connect properly.
- Set Up a Virtual Python Environment
Begin by creating and activating a virtual Python environment, then install the required dependencies:
python3 -m venv env
source env/bin/activate
pip install -r requirements.txt- Configure Browserbase Credentials
Add your Browserbase Project ID and API Key to the .env file in the following format:
BROWSERBASE_PROJECT_ID=<your_project_id_here>
BROWSERBASE_API_KEY=<your_api_key_here>- Install Playwright Compatible Browsers
Ensure all required Playwright browsers are installed by running:
playwright install- Run the CLI with Browserbase
Use the following command to start the CUA tool in Browserbase mode:
python cli.py --computer browserbaseAfter running the command, you will receive a URL in the terminal. Open this in your browser to preview changes and interact with the assistant.
- Start Using the Assistant
Once the setup is complete, type commands to specify tasks for the assistant. Browserbase allows you to remotely control and monitor through the provided interface.
Follow these steps to leverage the full functionality of the OpenAI-powered CUA using Browserbase!
How Much it Cost to Run Task with OpenAI Computer Use
Using OpenAI’s computer use functionality can provide dynamic solutions, but understanding its associated costs is crucial for effective usage. Below is an analysis of the cost structure based on usage scenarios, including some real examples and their outcomes. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:
Cost Breakdown by Task
| Task Description | Environment Used | Cost Incurred | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic query to get a sports match score | Local | $1.50 | Took a long time; failed to provide quick results. |
| Using virtual environment to search scores | Browser-based | $0.10 | Successfully retrieved correct data but at high cost. |
| Finding the cheapest flight for specific dates | Browser-based | $1.10 | Task failed due to delays and system crashes. |
Insights from Testing
- Local Environment Performance
- Tasks like fetching basic information took $1.50 but failed to provide expected efficiency or accuracy.
- Slower performance was noted, especially for repetitive queries.
- Virtual Environment Usage
- The browser-based mode cost $0.10 just to return one correct answer out of three queries.
- Running these tasks was slower and consumed significant credits, taking up to 40 minutes for a single task with partial success.
- Challenges with Flight Search
- Attempting to find the cheapest flight consumed over $1.10, yet the session crashed after multiple attempts, with no satisfactory results.
- Credits were consumed even when no meaningful answers were delivered.
Observations on Credits and Performance
- Tasks that appear simple, such as fetching a score or searching flight data, can incur unexpectedly high costs.
- The use of browser-based virtual environments showed inconsistent performance and high time investment, which diminished overall cost-efficiency.
- The provided “sample app” in this functionality required significant optimization for smoother operation.
Recommendations for Optimal Usage
To maximize value:
- Use APIs Directly: Implement API integration instead of relying on sample apps for more predictable results.
- Optimize Query Sizes: Shorten the complexity of tasks or divide them step-by-step to reduce costs.
- Leverage on High-End Tasks: Lightweight tasks like match scores or basic searches may not justify the cost when using this tool.
By understanding these cost implications, users can decide whether OpenAI’s computer use aligns with their application’s usage requirements or explore alternatives for better efficiency.
Verdict
OpenAI’s computer use currently operates on two models, GPT-4 and GPT-3.5 (often referred to as “O1”). This dual-model operation can drive up costs significantly, especially with frequent or intensive usage. For now, it’s advisable to use the tool sparingly—perhaps for simpler tasks to satisfy curiosity—rather than deploying it aggressively unless budgetary constraints aren’t a concern. If prolonged, heavy usage is necessary, options like subscribing to the Pro plan at $200 per month or waiting for potential updates, such as an OpenAI Operator for Plus users, might be worth considering.
