OpenAI’s Curious Move With Operator: Forgoing Quick Cash to Win the War

OpenAI has taken a conservative approach with Operator, limiting access to ChatGPT Pro users who pay $200 per month. Only these subscribers can use the tool to automate tasks on the web.

The company describes Operator as a “research preview,” indicating an experiment rather than a finished product.

Why it matters. The AI modeling giant is prioritizing product refinement over quick revenue. While $200 per month per user is a steep price, the decision to restrict access at this stage limits adoption intentionally.

Between the lines. OpenAI has partnered with companies like DoorDash, Instacart, Priceline, OpenTable, and Uber. While these partnerships might hint at potential commercial deals, OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap told The Wall Street Journal there are no financial agreements in place. These collaborations aim solely to optimize user experience and ensure compatibility with Operator.

For now, Operator’s revenue comes exclusively from Pro subscriptions. However, this could change:

• OpenAI has announced plans to expand access to Plus, Team, and Enterprise users.
• The company has also promised to release its computer-using agent model API to developers.

The company hasn’t provided specific timelines for these updates.

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In perspective. OpenAI operates in a market with massive potential. Analysts predict generative AI could generate more than $1 trillion annually within the next decade.

However, OpenAI is prioritizing controlled implementation and product perfection over maximizing short-term revenue with Operator.

The bet. By initially limiting Operator to its most engaged and high-paying users, OpenAI seeks high-quality feedback. These users are more likely to provide valuable insights, helping the company refine the product. At this stage, errors carry fewer consequences, and the lessons learned are more impactful.

This strategy suggests that broader monetization efforts will come once Operator reaches greater maturity.

Going deeper. OpenAI’s cautious approach with Operator contrasts with its bold moves elsewhere. For instance, the company is part of the $500 billion Stargate Project, an initiative to push the U.S. to the forefront of AI development.

For now, Operator remains a strategic experimental project rather than a major revenue driver.

Image | Andrew Neel edited by Xataka On

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