OpenAI plans to launch a new AI tool called "Operator" in January 2024, designed to handle tasks like booking travel or writing code by taking actions on a user's computer. This tool, initially available as a research preview and through OpenAI's developer API, reflects a broader trend in AI development toward “agent” technology—AI that can complete complex tasks with minimal supervision. Other tech giants, like Microsoft and Google, are similarly advancing in this space, aiming to create AI that can act on behalf of users in real-time. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sees these agents as the next major AI breakthrough, moving beyond just creating smarter models.