nexnews – Google has unveiled its first AI assistant, Project Mariner, capable of autonomous web browsing. Developed as part of DeepMind’s research, Mariner can control the Chrome browser to perform tasks like moving the cursor, clicking buttons, filling forms, and even shopping online—mimicking human browsing behavior.
Currently available to a select group of testers, Mariner leverages Google’s Gemini AI model to enhance user experience. According to TechCrunch, a Google executive described this as a fundamental shift in user experience, moving away from direct website interaction to AI-mediated assistance.
After installing Mariner via a Chrome extension, users can access a chat window in their browser to request tasks such as creating a grocery cart based on a given list. However, the assistant has deliberate limitations: it cannot complete payment processes, input sensitive card details, accept cookies, or sign terms of service agreements. Google emphasizes these restrictions to give users more control.
Here’s how Mariner works:
- The assistant adds items to a shopping cart or performs other tasks.
- It takes a screenshot of the completed task in the browser.
- The image is sent to Gemini for analysis.
- Gemini provides the necessary instructions for the user’s computer to implement actions on the website.
Mariner’s capabilities extend to booking flights and hotels, finding recipes, and shopping for household items. However, it operates only on the active Chrome tab, meaning users cannot multitask while the assistant is working. This design ensures transparency, allowing users to monitor every action the assistant performs.
“Just as a person uses websites, your assistant can now do the same tasks on your behalf,” explained a DeepMind technology manager.
While Mariner has the potential to revolutionize web interactions, it raises questions about how users will engage with websites in the future. The reliance on AI assistants could reduce direct user interaction with websites, potentially altering the web landscape over time.
The public release date for Project Mariner is yet to be announced, but when it arrives, it is expected to significantly reshape the web browsing experience.
