OpenAI upgrades Chrome extension to let ChatGPT view and control browser tabs
OpenAI’s updated Chrome extension allows ChatGPT to read open tabs and perform tasks like filling forms, following the retirement of its Atlas browser.
Key points
- The ChatGPT extension can now view content in open Chrome tabs when tagged in the web or desktop app.
- ChatGPT Work can control tabs to send messages, fill forms, and organize content.
- The sidebar now includes full conversation history and works on Chromium-based browsers like Edge and Brave.
OpenAI has updated its ChatGPT extension for Google Chrome, granting the AI assistant the ability to view open browser tabs and perform direct actions within them. This follows the discontinuation of the company’s ChatGPT Atlas browser, which was retired on August 9.
The extension now allows users to tag Chrome within the ChatGPT web or desktop application. Once tagged, the AI can access information from open tabs to generate personalized answers or complete multi-step tasks. OpenAI demonstrated this capability with a video showing the assistant comparing three open tabs containing sofa listings.
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Expanded Browser Capabilities
The update introduces new query types that leverage open tab data. Users can ask ChatGPT to extract vendor details from multiple tabs into a comparison sheet with pricing and links. It can also analyze contractor services across tabs and draft an email to the most suitable provider.
For complex workflows, the ChatGPT Work agent can control Chrome tabs to send messages, fill out forms, and download files. This mirrors features found in Google’s Gemini-powered auto-browse capability. The assistant can also organize or group open tabs automatically.
Sidebar and Compatibility Updates
The ChatGPT sidebar in Chrome now provides access to the full power of the AI, including the entire conversation history from Chat or Work modes. This allows users to interact with the assistant without leaving the current page or opening new tabs.
According to Engadget, the extension is available to all ChatGPT plan tiers. While designed for Chrome, OpenAI states the add-on is also compatible with other Chromium-based browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Opera.
What should you do?
Users should review the permissions granted to the ChatGPT extension in their browser settings. Since the tool can view open tabs and fill forms, sensitive information such as personal data or financial details may be exposed to the AI model.
What to do and how to stay safe: OpenAI
- Review extension permissions in your browser settings to ensure you are comfortable with the level of access granted to the AI assistant.
- Avoid keeping sensitive documents, login pages, or personal financial information open in tabs while using the ChatGPT extension.
- Monitor the sidebar interactions to ensure the AI is not inadvertently accessing or processing confidential data from other open tabs.
- Check for updates to the extension regularly, as OpenAI may modify how data is processed or shared with its servers.
Step-by-step guide: Prompt Injection Warning Signs: How to Spot AI Manipulation
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
Can ChatGPT see what I am browsing in other tabs?
Yes, when you tag Chrome in the ChatGPT app, the extension can view the content of your open tabs to answer queries or perform tasks.
Does this feature work on browsers other than Chrome?
Yes, OpenAI says the extension is compatible with Chromium-based browsers including Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Opera.
Can ChatGPT fill out forms for me?
Yes, the ChatGPT Work agent can control tabs to fill out forms, send messages, and download files based on your instructions.
