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What is Manus Browser Operator?

Manus Browser Operator is a browser extension that enables Manus to operate directly within your local browser environment. Unlike the cloud browser that Manus typically uses, Browser Operator works with your actual browser—complete with your existing logins, sessions, and local IP address. This transforms your browser from a passive viewing tool into an active workspace where Manus can execute complex tasks using the premium tools and authenticated systems you already access.

Why Local Browser Matters

The Authentication Advantage

When Manus works in your local browser, it operates with your trusted credentials and local IP address. This means: No Login Barriers: The system recognizes activity as coming from your trusted machine, eliminating unfamiliar login attempts, CAPTCHA interruptions, and session expiration issues. Reliable Access: Because the activity appears legitimate to websites, it clears standard access barriers automatically and maintains active sessions. Premium Tool Access: Manus can work with subscription services you’re already logged into—Crunchbase, PitchBook, SimilarWeb, Financial Times, Semrush, Ahrefs, or any authenticated platform.

Cloud Browser vs. Local Browser

Cloud Browser (Default):
  • Sandboxed, isolated environment
  • Works across any device without installation
  • Ideal for most research, analysis, and content creation tasks
  • No local setup required
Local Browser (Browser Operator):
  • Uses your actual browser with existing sessions
  • Access to authenticated systems and premium tools
  • Trusted local IP and credentials
  • Best for workflows requiring logged-in access
Both work together seamlessly—Manus automatically uses the appropriate environment for each task.

How It Works

3-Step Process

Step 1: Activate “My Browser” Connector Navigate to Connectors and toggle on “My Browser.” This tells Manus to use your local browser for tasks requiring web access. Step 2: Authorize the Session When you assign a task, Manus requests permission to take control. Click “Authorize” to grant one-time access. You remain in command of when and how Manus interacts with your browser. Step 3: Monitor in Dedicated Tab Manus opens a new tab within a tab group named after your current task. You can:
  • Watch the task unfold in real-time
  • Take over by clicking into the tab
  • Stop instantly by closing the tab

Real-World Use Cases

Market Research with Premium Tools

Scenario: Analyze 20 competitors using your Crunchbase and PitchBook subscriptions Without Browser Operator: Manual login, navigation, data extraction, and compilation across multiple platforms With Browser Operator: Result: Manus accesses both platforms using your authenticated sessions, extracts data systematically, and delivers a comprehensive comparison table.

SEO Analysis at Scale

Scenario: Audit 50 competitor websites using your Semrush and Ahrefs accounts Request: Result: Automated analysis across both premium SEO tools with your subscription access, delivering actionable insights.

CRM Data Enrichment

Scenario: Enrich 100 leads in your CRM with additional research Request: Result: Systematic enrichment using your authenticated access to premium B2B tools.

Financial Research

Scenario: Compile market intelligence from paywalled sources Request: Result: Comprehensive research synthesis from premium financial sources you’re subscribed to.

Transparency and Control

Full Visibility

Every action Manus takes is meticulously logged, providing a clear audit trail. You can see exactly what Manus is doing at each step.

Instant Stop

If you need to halt a task immediately, simply close the dedicated tab. Manus stops instantly.

Remote Access

Because Manus operates locally within your desktop browser, you can initiate and monitor tasks from your phone or another device. As long as your primary computer is online, your AI assistant is ready to work from anywhere.

Review Before Authorization

If a site contains sensitive information, you can review what Manus will access before clicking “Authorize.” You always maintain control.

Availability and Compatibility

Current Status: Beta rollout to Pro, Plus, and Team users Supported Browsers:
  • Chrome (recommended)
  • Edge (recommended)
  • Additional browsers coming soon
Current Limitations:
  • Complex interactions (drag-and-drop, multi-step forms) may not work perfectly
  • Some websites with aggressive anti-bot measures may require manual intervention

Security and Privacy

Your Control

  • One-time authorization: Each task requires explicit permission
  • Visible activity: All actions logged and visible in real-time
  • Instant termination: Close tab to stop immediately
  • Selective access: Choose which tasks use local browser

Your Data

  • Manus operates within your browser using your existing sessions
  • No credentials are stored or transmitted
  • Activity appears as coming from your local machine
  • Standard Manus privacy policies apply

Tips for Best Results

Be specific about tool usage:
  • ✅ “Use my Crunchbase account to research these companies”
  • ❌ “Research these companies”
Verify logins first:
  • Ensure you’re logged into required services before starting task
  • Check that sessions are active and not expired
Review sensitive sites:
  • Before authorizing, confirm which sites Manus will access
  • Use caution with financial accounts or sensitive data
Monitor first few tasks:
  • Watch initial tasks to understand how Browser Operator works
  • Adjust prompts based on observed behavior
Combine with other features:
  • Use Wide Research for parallel processing across multiple items
  • Export results to slides, reports, or structured data

Common Questions

You can initiate tasks from mobile, but your desktop browser must be running for Browser Operator to function.
Manus doesn’t store or transmit your credentials. It operates within your existing browser sessions.
Yes. Close the dedicated tab to stop Manus immediately.