OpenAI released an opt-in tool named Computer History for its desktop app on macOS. The system records computer interactions across applications and websites to build memories organized on a timeline. This tool serves as a successor to Chronicle, which previously compiled histories using screenshots. Computer History operates as a keylogging and event capture system.
The documentation states that Computer History creates an interaction-event stream from permitted apps and websites. Events include clicks, typing, keyboard shortcuts, app switches, and context exposed by the macOS accessibility system. The system periodically turns these events into text summaries and local memory files. OpenAI notes that the feature does not capture screen images, microphone input, system audio, or private-mode browsing.
Computer History is off by default and available only to ChatGPT Pro, Business, and Enterprise users. Pro users can enable the feature individually, while Business and Enterprise users require administrator approval. The feature is currently unavailable in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. It is also unavailable for users accessing ChatGPT via API key or Amazon Bedrock.
OpenAI warns users about security and privacy risks in its documentation. Computer History files can contain sensitive information and are not encrypted by the tool. Other programs running as the macOS user may be able to access them. OpenAI advises users to turn off the feature during communications with other people unless they have prior express consent. The company also suggests pausing the service or excluding apps containing sensitive health, financial, or personal information.
Interaction events are saved locally for up to 48 hours before deletion by ChatGPT and Codex. Events are sent to OpenAI servers to generate memories, which may be stored locally for longer periods and used in future chats passed back to OpenAI. OpenAI states it does not retain event files after processing unless required by law and does not use them for model training.
The feature introduces additional costs because it consumes tokens during activity summarization and memory creation. It also expands security vulnerabilities. OpenAI warns that Computer History increases the risk of prompt injection from content in apps and websites. If a user visits a website containing malicious instructions, ChatGPT or Codex might follow those instructions.
Users should check their ChatGPT desktop app settings on macOS to verify if Computer History is enabled or disabled for their accounts.
