A new AI-powered web browser signals the next phase of “agentic commerce,” where AI doesn’t just search — it acts
Oct 23, 2025
OpenAI’s new ChatGPT Atlas browser introduces “Agent Mode,” allowing users to perform real-world actions like booking flights, hotels, or shopping directly from within the browser. The launch marks a major shift in how consumers — and potentially travelers — will plan and purchase online.
Key takeaways
- Agent Mode debut: Atlas introduces an AI-powered feature that can act on user commands, such as booking flights, making reservations, or editing online documents.
- Personalized browsing: The new “composer” interface learns from past behavior and generates task suggestions, such as “plan France travel logistics” or “complete Air France booking.”
- Travel implications: The feature could automate trip planning — reading reviews, assembling itineraries, and booking trips — blending search, personalization, and transaction in one flow.
- User control and privacy: OpenAI says the agent operates only within browser tabs and requires user consent to take control, but questions remain about payment and data security.
- Industry impact: Atlas and rival browsers like Perplexity’s Comet challenge Google’s dominance in search and commerce, paving the way for AI-led “vibe life-ing,” where daily tasks — including travel — are delegated to intelligent agents.
- Rollout details: Atlas is available now for MacOS, with Windows, iOS, and Android versions to follow; Agent Mode is exclusive to ChatGPT Plus and Pro users.
