How it works
agent-browser operates as a command-line interface that controls a headless Chromium browser instance. When you execute a command like agent-browser open example.com, it launches a browser, navigates to the specified URL, and then performs subsequent actions. Its core strength lies in its ability to generate an "accessibility tree snapshot" of a web page, which assigns unique, deterministic "refs" to interactive elements. AI agents can then use these refs to accurately target and interact with elements, bypassing the fragility often associated with traditional CSS or XPath selectors.
The tool is implemented in Rust, ensuring high performance and minimal overhead for complex automation sequences. It offers various installation methods, including a global native Rust binary for maximum speed and npx for quick, no-install trials. For persistent automation, it supports session and profile management, allowing cookies, local storage, and login states to be saved and reloaded across browser restarts, which is crucial for maintaining authenticated sessions without repeated logins.
Why use it
agent-browser is an indispensable tool for developers building AI agents, automation scripts, or robust testing suites that require reliable web interaction. Its Rust-powered architecture delivers superior speed, making it ideal for tasks demanding rapid execution and low latency. The unique "snapshot" and "ref" system provides a robust and AI-friendly method for element selection, significantly reducing the flakiness often encountered in web automation when DOM structures change.
Beyond basic interactions, agent-browser offers a comprehensive suite of commands for advanced scenarios, including network request interception, screenshot generation, PDF creation, JavaScript evaluation, and detailed debug tracing. Its ability to manage isolated sessions and persistent profiles simplifies the handling of multiple user accounts or complex, multi-step workflows. For those who need to integrate web automation into serverless environments or use custom browser builds, agent-browser provides flexible options, making it a versatile choice for modern web automation challenges.