AI automation is getting smarter, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. While ChatGPT Operator costs $200/month, I built a fully functional AI agent that costs me $0.
The secret? Browser Use is an open-source alternative to Operator that provides powerful web automation without the price tag.
What is Browser use?
Browser Use is an AI-powered web automation tool that functions similarly to ChatGPT Operator. It allows an AI agent to browse the Internet, extract information, and complete tasks automatically—just like a virtual assistant.
Here’s how you can set it up in minutes:
How to Build your own AI Agent for free
1. Clone the Repository
Start by cloning the Browser Use repository from GitHub:
👉 Browser Use GitHub Repo
2. Set up your environment
- Create a new folder on your PC.
- Open a terminal and run:
uv venv --python 3.12(You need to installuvfirst if you haven’t already.)
3. Install dependencies
- Activate the virtual environment.
- Install the required dependencies:
pip install -r requirements.txt - Install Playwright for web automation:
playwright install
4. Run the web UI locally
Once everything is set up, you can launch the Web UI to control your AI agent.
5. Get an API Key from Google AI studio
- Go to Google AI Studio and generate a Gemini API Key.
- Paste the key into Browser Use, and your AI agent is ready!
Testing the AI Agent in action
I tested my AI agent with the following prompt:
📝 “Go to Google and type ‘Latest McKinsey Consulting Reports.’ Click on the first link. After opening the link, find the first report and download it in PDF form.”
🛠️ Result:
The AI successfully opened the first McKinsey report it found, but access was restricted behind an authentication wall. It even attempted to sign up using a test email! Since that didn’t work, it intelligently downloaded the available sample report, showing remarkable adaptability.
AI Agents are easier to build than ever
Five years ago, building an AI agent like this required advanced programming knowledge. Today, with open-source tools and APIs, anyone can build powerful automation agents in minutes.
The best part? You don’t need a $200/month subscription.
