ChatGPT for Mac Tracks Activity, Still Missing from the EEA

OpenAI deploys Computer History in the macOS ChatGPT app to generate memories from events sourced from authorized apps and websites. The feature, available only for paid plans and inactive by default, processes logs on OpenAI's servers, with local files retained for up to 48 hours. Memories are stored in unencrypted Markdown and can, depending on settings, contribute to model improvement once used in conversation. The tool is not yet available in the EEA, the UK, and Switzerland, and comes with safeguards and security recommendations.

Limited Access: macOS and Pro, Business, Enterprise Plans

Computer History is only offered on macOS and for Pro, Business, and Enterprise plans. In Business and Enterprise spaces, an administrator must first enable the feature before each member can activate it. The tool is currently unavailable in the European Economic Area, the UK, and Switzerland. OpenAI plans to roll it out in these regions in the coming weeks.

Server Processing, 48 Hours on Mac, and Plaintext Files

Event files remain on the Mac for up to 48 hours, but their processing is done on OpenAI's servers to generate memories. OpenAI states that it does not retain these logs after analysis nor use them for training. Memories are stored in plaintext, unencrypted Markdown files, meaning that other programs running under the same macOS account can technically access them. Once integrated into a conversation, this content joins the context and, depending on account settings, may then contribute to the improvement of OpenAI's models. OpenAI recommends disabling collection during exchanges with third parties and excluding applications containing sensitive information. The company also notes an increased risk of prompt injection, where a site may slip malicious instructions to ChatGPT. To regulate usage, the feature is disabled by default and requires individual activation; private browsing is never included; exclusion or authorization lists by applications and URLs are available; a pause option is accessible from the macOS menu bar; and history can be deleted by item or by time slice.

Event Collection and Timeline, No Screenshots

OpenAI introduces Computer History, which converts activity on macOS into memories usable by ChatGPT and Codex. This option generates a history of events from approved applications and websites by monitoring clicks, keystrokes, shortcuts, application changes, and information provided by system accessibility. This activity stream is transformed into textual summaries and local memory files, organized by day and hour in a timeline accessible via settings. Computer History replaces Chronicle and only processes interactions, without taking screenshots.

Work Reminders and Automation Suggestions

Highlighted uses include resuming interrupted activities, finding a document viewed earlier, and inventorying tasks already completed. ChatGPT can also suggest transforming repetitive actions into skills or automations.