Opera Introduces WebAI Standard to Run AI Models Locally in the Browser
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Opera has launched WebAI, a new web standard enabling users to run AI models directly within the browser without relying on cloud infrastructure. This initiative supports various open-weight models, including Google’s Gemma and Apple’s on-device foundation models for Macs. The feature is currently available as an opt-in early preview in Opera One, with plans to extend it to Opera GX and Opera Neon soon. By processing data locally, WebAI allows developers to integrate AI features without managing their own servers or paying per request. Users benefit from enhanced privacy by keeping their data on their devices and avoiding subscription fees for AI services. However, this local execution places higher demands on hardware, meaning performance will vary depending on individual device capabilities. The move addresses growing privacy concerns as AI assistants increasingly access personal information.
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