Chat AI in Browser
Leading the UX/UI design for Al features across Opera browsers. Responsible for both functionality and visual design in Opera One, and for functionality in Opera GX and Opera Air. Developing a unified design system for Al features to ensure seamless product development across all three browsers.
DSGN
UX
DESIGN SYSTEM
Problem
Users browse pages to read, research, buy, learn, and act. The problem statement: How can we surface helpful AI capabilities directly inside the browser at the moment the user needs them — without breaking flow, leaking private data.
Solution
The initial iteration introduced an AI chat integrated into a sidebar, allowing users to easily access it while browsing. However, after testing, it quickly became clear that a command-line interface would be a more effective approach — a faster, more powerful, and “nerd-friendly” way to interact with the AI. This new interface provides instant access during browsing, understands page context, summarizes content, and can even manage open tabs — reorganizing, cleaning up, or grouping them intelligently. To ensure safe use of AI, a new feature has been introduced: "Local Models". With this option, you can use the chat even while offline, and be confident that all your data remains securely on your computer.
