OpenAI is giving ChatGPT and Codex a new way to learn from how you use your Mac, even outside the app. Computer History is an upgraded replacement for Codex’s Chronicle research preview. It builds a searchable timeline from activity across selected apps and websites. The feature is off by default and must be enabled by each user, giving control over which sources contribute. It appears a month after Codex joined ChatGPT on the desktop, and replaces Chronicle, which relied on screenshots. Computer History instead records interaction events exposed through macOS accessibility features, including clicks, typing, keyboard shortcuts, and switching between apps.

Computer History is opt-in for ChatGPT Pro, Business, and Enterprise users on macOS. Business and Enterprise administrators must enable access first. Initial availability excludes the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the UK. Users can ask what they were doing before a break, find a recently viewed document, or generate a summary of the day’s work. ChatGPT may suggest turning repeated workflows into skills or automations.

The feature does not capture screenshots, screen recordings, microphone input, or system audio. Private browsing is excluded. Users can inspect timeline entries, reveal memory files in Finder, delete specific items, or clear activity from the last 10 minutes, hour, day, or all time. Events are stored locally for up to 48 hours and processed on OpenAI’s servers to generate memories, but are not retained after processing or used for training. Memory files remain locally until deleted.

OpenAI warns that Computer History can increase prompt-injection risk from malicious content. It recommends pausing collection during communications with others without consent and excluding apps with sensitive information.