Software

OpenAI's Computer History Tracks User Activity as ChatGPT Memory Timeline

OpenAI's Computer History turns user clicks and keystrokes into a searchable ChatGPT memory timeline, with data stored as plaintext Markdown files.

Image: The Decoder

OpenAI has introduced a new feature called Computer History, which records user interactions across apps and websites to create a searchable memory timeline for ChatGPT and Codex. This feature replaces the earlier research preview known as 'Chronicle,' which relied on screenshots. Instead, Computer History captures interaction events like clicks, keystrokes, and app switches through macOS's accessibility system, without recording screenshots, screen recordings, or private browsing activity.

The system converts captured events into text summaries and stores them locally as Markdown memory files. These files are grouped by day and time, showing which apps were involved. OpenAI highlights that repeated workflows can be identified as 'Skills' or automations, enabling users to generate reusable templates. Typical use cases include locating recently edited documents or creating standup summaries, according to the company.

OpenAI has implemented a multi-layered permission system for Computer History. In Business and Enterprise workspaces, admins must enable the feature, but individual users still need to consent. Users can control which apps and websites contribute data through include and exclude lists. The feature is not available in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom.

Source: thedecoder

Key points

OpenAI's Computer History records user clicks and keystrokes as interaction events through macOS's accessibility system.
Captured events are converted into text summaries and stored locally as plaintext Markdown memory files.
Computer History groups memory summaries by day and time, showing which apps were involved.
Repeated workflows are identified as 'Skills' or automations for reusable templates.
Memory files are stored locally but not encrypted, making them readable by any program under the same macOS user account.
OpenAI processes temporary event files on its servers but does not retain them after processing unless required by law.
Computer History captures content from apps and websites, posing a prompt injection risk if malicious instructions are embedded on a webpage.

Source: The Decoder Read the original →

WRITTEN BY

Theo Almeida

AI Software & Developer Tools

Theo covers AI software, developer tools, frameworks, and the platforms builders use every day.