OpenAI upgrades ChatGPT browser extension to read tabs and act on web pages

OpenAI has updated its ChatGPT browser extension, allowing users to mention Chrome in a ChatGPT conversation so the assistant can read open tabs as context and help compare pages, organize material, or carry out browser tasks. OpenAI's listed uses also include summarizing supplier prices and features, organizing tables, pre-filling forms, and drafting emails based on information on a webpage. The upgraded sidebar can open ChatGPT directly while browsing and continue an existing conversation history. ChatGPT Work can also operate browser tabs after the user grants permission, for example filling in forms, sending messages, downloading files, or organizing tabs.

According to OpenAI's official notes, the extension supports not only Chrome but also Edge, Brave, Opera, and Vivaldi. Opera supports tab invocation and browser control but does not have the sidebar feature. Whether a given capability is available also depends on the desktop app version, account workspace settings, and the staged rollout schedule.

This does not mean ChatGPT can freely access all webpages by default. OpenAI says the extension requests broad browser permissions when installed, and ChatGPT asks for permission before acting on a new site for the first time. Users can choose to allow once, allow for that site, or allow for all sites; accessing browsing history requires separate authorization. For pages that require login, the assistant can use the login state already present in the browser, but users should still check page content, permission requests, and important actions such as submitting or sending.

The extension update also follows the retirement of the ChatGPT Atlas browser. OpenAI has confirmed that Atlas has stopped receiving updates and has been retired, but open tabs, bookmarks, and browsing history in Atlas do not automatically transfer to Chrome or other browsers. The new extension lets ChatGPT fit into a user's existing browser workflow, but it is not the same as migrating Atlas browsing data or the browser itself.