OpenAI Operator Mobile App Gets Major Update

OpenAI shipped a significant update to the Operator iOS app this week, addressing several limitations that kept the mobile experience from matching the desktop version. The update makes Operator meaningfully more useful for users who launch and monitor agent tasks from their phones.

What's new

• iPad support. The app now runs natively on iPad with a layout designed for larger screens. Previously, iPad users had to use the iPhone app in compatibility mode.
• Offline task queuing. Tasks created without internet connection are queued and executed when connection returns. Previously, the app would simply fail to create tasks offline.
• Improved notifications. More granular notification settings — you can now be notified only for specific event types (task complete, payment confirmation required, error occurred).
• Widget support. Home screen widget shows active tasks and lets you launch common task types without opening the app.
• Siri Shortcuts integration. "Hey Siri, book me a flight" can now trigger Operator workflows.
• Improved performance. App launch time reduced by 40%, task status updates are real-time rather than polling.

Android status

OpenAI confirmed in the announcement that the Android app is "still in development" with no release date provided. The iOS update suggests the Android version is being deprioritized — surprising given that Android has roughly 2x the global market share of iOS.

Our take

The update addresses most of the limitations we noted in our Operator review. The iPad support is particularly welcome — iPad users represent a meaningful segment of Operator's audience, and the iPhone-only limitation was a real frustration.

The offline task queuing is more useful than it sounds. Many Operator tasks are created when you think of them (often when away from your desk), and the ability to queue tasks for later execution matches how people actually use mobile devices.

For users who've been waiting for the mobile experience to match desktop, this update is the green light. Operator is now a credible mobile-first agent platform, not just a desktop platform with a mobile companion app.