OpenAI has introduced Computer History, an optional feature for the ChatGPT desktop app on macOS that records users’ interactions across selected apps and websites to create timeline-based memories. It is intended to help ChatGPT provide more relevant responses, identify automation opportunities and support resuming earlier work, but it also raises privacy and security concerns because it captures typing, clicks and other activity.

The feature records events including keyboard input, shortcuts, app switches and accessibility-system context, rather than screenshots, microphone audio or private-browsing activity. Interaction events are kept locally for up to 48 hours, while information is sent to OpenAI’s servers to generate memories that may be retained longer and used in later chats; OpenAI warns that local files are not encrypted. Computer History is off by default and available to Pro, Business and Enterprise customers on macOS, but not currently in the UK, EEA or Switzerland.