ChatGPT can now complete tasks on your computer

Ashwani Kumar — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 11:53:34 +0000

ChatGPT can now complete tasks on your computer

With GPT-5.6, ChatGPT can use the apps on your computer and your browser to complete tasks for you. See how it works across macOS and Windows, how you can collaborate with it in real time, and how it keeps multi-step work moving in the tools you already use.

Learn more: https://learn.chatgpt.com/

Chapters: 00:00 Browser and Computer Use

00:12 Analyzing community feedback

00:26 Annotating in the in-app browser

00:38 Connecting Chrome

00:52 Controlling desktop apps

01:07 Connecting everyday tools

Yes, the new ChatGPT app is designed to work with non-web desktop applications as well. According to the video:

Desktop App Control: You can use the “computer use” feature to control apps directly on your Windows or macOS computer, not just websites (0:52–0:58).
Background Multitasking: On macOS, ChatGPT utilizes its own cursor, allowing it to perform tasks in the background so you can continue working on other things simultaneously (1:00–1:06).

Yes, OpenAI has officially launched ChatGPT Work powered by GPT-5.6, enabling the AI to directly interact with your computer’s desktop apps, files, and browsers to complete multi-step tasks on your behalf. Instead of just outputting text, this agentic feature takes over the legwork, clicking buttons, managing local files, and handling workflows from start to finish. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Key Features of ChatGPT Work

Direct Application Control: Seamlessly bridges and interacts with local software, your browser, and workplace tools like Slack, Gmail, and Google Drive. [2, 5]
Local Workspace Projects: Links directly to a selected folder on your Windows or Mac computer to securely view, organize, and write local files. [3, 5]
Scheduled Background Tasks: Automates recurring assignments—like cleaning out your downloads folder or drafting daily briefs—even while you are away from your desk. [1, 6]
Built-in Browser Support: Utilizes an integrated multi-tab browser to research, sign in securely, and pull live data. [1, 7]
Human-in-the-Loop Security: Pauses to ask for your explicit approval before executing any sensitive or consequential actions. [5, 8]

Cross-Platform Availability

The tool splits into three core areas within the application: Chat for standard messaging, Codex for advanced, parallel developer coding tasks, and Work for standard task delegation. [9, 10]

Desktop Application: Live for all tiers (including Free accounts) across macOS and Windows.
Web and Mobile Platforms: Rolling out globally to Pro, Plus, Business, Enterprise, and Edu accounts. [9, 11]