OpenAI has added a new feature, Computer History, to the ChatGPT desktop app for Mac. It is rolling out in stages starting August 13.
When you turn this feature on, ChatGPT watches your activity on your Mac: clicks, typing, keyboard shortcuts, and app switches.
How It Remembers Without Screenshots
OpenAI says the feature does not capture the screen. It does not collect screenshots, screen recordings, microphone input, or system audio at all.
Instead, it records only the events exposed by the macOS Accessibility API: structured interaction signals such as clicks, typing, keyboard shortcuts, and app switches.
These events are processed on OpenAI's servers and turned into "memories." The company says it does not keep the raw events after processing and does not use them for training.
What ultimately remains is a plain-text memory file stored on the user's computer. It stays local until you delete it.
"What Was I Doing Yesterday?" Is the Real Use
The examples OpenAI gave are concrete. It's meant for answering questions like "What was I debugging yesterday?" and "Where did I leave off on that PR?"
Based on this record, ChatGPT finds related files and conversations across Google Docs, Slack, and browser tabs you had open. It goes beyond remembering conversations inside the chat window.
The company's positioning is that it will pull out "skills" from repeated work patterns. It is closer to learning your work habits than simple memory.
For Now, Only Some Users, and Opt-In
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Rollout start | From August 13, 2026, Mac desktop app first |
| Who gets it | Pro, Business, and Enterprise users (global) |
| Later regions | The EEA, UK, and Switzerland to be added within weeks |
| How to enroll | Opt-in: it only works if the user turns it on |
| Replaces | Replaces the existing "Chronicle" feature |
According to 9to5Mac's report, the feature is an opt-in replacement for the existing "Chronicle" feature.
How Long History Is Kept Is Not Disclosed
That is as far as company statements and press reports confirm. The following are parts that still lack detailed verification from official documentation.
- The official announcement did not say when the Windows desktop app would be supported.
- Detailed specs on whether the collected events retain browser URLs or file names have not been released.
- It is also unconfirmed whether enterprise administrators can force the feature on or off at the organization level.
If you're a Pro or higher user running the ChatGPT desktop app on a Mac, it's worth first checking whether the Computer History option has shown up in your settings. (The New Stack)