OpenAI has introduced "Computer History," a new feature for its ChatGPT desktop application that allows the AI to recall and reference user activity across various apps and websites. According to OpenAI, the tool creates a searchable timeline of tasks to provide personalized context, reducing the need for users to manually explain previous workflows. The feature is currently rolling out to Pro, Business, and Enterprise subscribers.
How Computer History Tracks Desktop Activity
The Computer History feature functions as an optional, opt-in integration for the ChatGPT desktop app. Once enabled, it tracks interactions across selected applications and websites, such as Slack, Google Chrome, Notion, and Google Agenda, according to reports from Olhar Digital.
By recording these activities, the AI can synthesize information from a user’s workday to assist with tasks. For instance, a user can ask the chatbot to draft a status update based on activity performed across multiple apps the day before. The system processes this data to provide context-aware responses, effectively acting as an assistant that remembers work completed outside of the chat interface.
Privacy Controls and User Management
Users maintain control over their data through a dedicated settings menu, which can be accessed via the app or the system’s menu bar. According to Olhar Digital, users can pause or resume the data collection process at any time.
The system allows for granular management of recorded information:
- App Selection: Users choose exactly which websites and applications the AI is permitted to track.
- Timeline Review: A visual timeline allows users to see what has been logged and curate the information.
- Deletion: The settings include options to clear the entire history or remove specific entries.
OpenAI notes that this implementation is designed with a focus on privacy and efficiency. The feature is derived from a research project known as "Chronicle," which the company optimized to use fewer tokens compared to earlier iterations.
Regional Availability and Plan Requirements
The tool is currently limited to specific subscription tiers. Access is restricted to ChatGPT Pro, Business, and Enterprise users. For those on Business and Enterprise plans, administrative oversight is required; workspace administrators must enable the function before individual users can activate it.
The rollout is global, though with notable exceptions. According to OpenAI, users located in the European Economic Area (EEA), the United Kingdom, and Switzerland will not have access to the feature immediately. These regions are expected to receive the update in the coming weeks.
Did you know?
The Computer History feature is an evolution of a research preview called "Chronicle," which was designed to help AI models maintain context across different software environments without requiring manual input for every new session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Computer History enabled by default?
No. According to OpenAI, the feature is strictly opt-in and must be activated manually within the desktop app’s integration settings.
Can I stop the AI from tracking specific apps?
Yes. You can manage which applications or websites are included in your history through the settings menu or the menu bar, and you can pause data collection entirely if you prefer.
Is this feature available for free users?
At launch, the feature is limited to Pro, Business, and Enterprise subscribers.
Why is the feature not available in the UK or EU yet?
OpenAI has stated that users in the European Economic Area, the UK, and Switzerland will gain access in the coming weeks, though it did not specify a precise date for those regions.
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