Opera browser to run AI models locally with new WebAI standard

Key facts

• Opera introduced WebAI, a new web standard for local AI model deployment in browsers.
• WebAI supports models like Google's Gemma and Apple's on-device foundation model.
• The feature is available in an early preview for the Opera One browser.
• Users must opt-in to use the AI features.
• Local AI processing enhances privacy by keeping data on the user's device.

Browser maker Opera has launched WebAI, a new web standard designed to allow users to run artificial intelligence models directly within the browser, eliminating the need for cloud-based processing. This feature, currently in an early preview for the Opera One browser, aims to enhance user privacy by keeping data on the user's device. WebAI is built to support a variety of open-weight AI systems, including Google's Gemma and Apple's on-device foundation model on Macs. Opera stated that developers can integrate AI features without managing infrastructure, and users benefit from not needing AI subscriptions, with their information remaining on their own computers.