OpenAI Introduces Computer History Feature for ChatGPT Mac Desktop App

By: Harsh Vardhan

|

Updated on: 14-Aug-2026 06:00 PM

7,181 views

Follow Us:

7,181 views

OpenAI has launched a new feature called Computer History for the ChatGPT Mac desktop app. This tool allows ChatGPT to remember user activity across selected apps and websites. The feature aims to provide more context in future conversations by referencing past computer activity. OpenAI announced the rollout on X, stating that ChatGPT can now remember activity across apps and websites on a user's computer.

Key Highlights

• OpenAI launches Computer History for ChatGPT Mac desktop app to track user activity across apps and websites.
• Feature is optional, requires manual activation, and allows users to control which data is collected.
• Currently available to Pro, Business, and Enterprise users except in EEA, Switzerland, and the UK.

Computer History Feature Details

The Computer History feature is off by default. Users must enable it manually within the ChatGPT Mac desktop app. Once activated, users can select which apps and websites contribute to their Computer History. They can also pause activity collection, review their history, or delete it at any time.

Computer History acts as a searchable log of user activity on a Mac. ChatGPT can use this log to answer questions about previous actions or tasks. For instance, users can ask what they were doing before a break or request a summary of their recent work. The feature can also help locate recently viewed documents.

This new feature replaces OpenAI's earlier Chronicle research preview. Unlike Chronicle, which used screenshots, Computer History relies on activity data from macOS accessibility features. It tracks actions such as clicks, typing, keyboard shortcuts, and switching between apps.

Availability and Privacy Controls

Computer History is available to ChatGPT Pro, Business, and Enterprise users on the Mac desktop app. For Business and Enterprise accounts, administrators must enable access before users can turn on the feature. The feature is not available in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or the UK at launch due to regional restrictions.

OpenAI emphasizes that Computer History is optional. Users have control over which apps and websites are included. They can pause or delete their activity history at any time. The feature also allows users to review their collected activity for transparency.

ChatGPT can use Computer History to identify repetitive workflows. If users perform the same tasks repeatedly, ChatGPT may suggest automating those actions or turning them into a skill. This could help streamline daily routines and improve productivity.

Recent OpenAI Developments

OpenAI has seen several leadership changes recently. Brad Lightcap, a key executive, left the company after eight years. Denise Dresser, the revenue chief, also departed after eight months. In related news, Apple has started sending direct alerts to iPhone users when they are targeted by Pegasus-like spyware.