Microsoft’s Magentic UI Web Agents. Run it 100% Free using Ollama!
AI Summary
This video provides a comprehensive tutorial on setting up and using Magentic UI, a free, privacy-focused AI agent that can control your computer locally using Ollama.
Key Features:
- Runs 100% locally on your computer using Ollama
- Automatically controls a virtual computer to perform tasks
- Includes multiple agent types: web surfer, coder, and file surfer agents
- Takes screenshots and processes visual information
- All data remains private and secure
Setup Process:
- Download and install Ollama from ollama.com
- Install the Qwen 3 model:
ollama run qwen2.5:3b- Install Docker Desktop (prerequisite)
- Install Magentic UI:
pip install magentic-ui ollama- Run:
magentic-ui --port 8081- Configure in browser at localhost:8081 using Ollama provider with “qwen2.5:3b” model
Live Demonstration:
The video shows two practical examples:
- Finding post office closing hours in DE1 UK
- Searching for Italian restaurants in London Bridge with ratings and hours
Performance & Limitations:
- Processing time: 5-10 minutes per complex query (on Mac Studio baseline specs)
- Performance depends heavily on computer specifications and running applications
- Works on both Mac and Windows with similar setup
- Requires decent system resources during operation
- Docker dependency adds setup complexity for beginners
Privacy Benefits:
- Complete local processing - no external server communication
- User maintains control with ability to take manual control at any time
- Open source and transparent
- Cost-effective alternative to paid AI services
User Experience:
- Interactive approval system for AI actions
- Real-time screenshot feedback
- Plan generation and review before execution
- Manual control option when needed