OpenAI has introduced new capabilities to its Chrome extension for ChatGPT, enabling the AI assistant to view and interact with tabs currently open in the user's browser. The update allows users to reference active tabs directly within the ChatGPT interface, either through the sidebar or the main application.

The extension, first reported by The Verge, builds on earlier experiments that let ChatGPT analyze content from external websites. With the latest version, users can prompt the assistant to examine multiple open tabs simultaneously. For example, a user could ask ChatGPT to compare products listed across three different shopping tabs and generate a summary with pricing and key features.

OpenAI demonstrated several use cases in a preview video. These include extracting information from a form filled out in Chrome to complete a registration, scheduling an appointment by adding it to both personal and work calendars, and comparing contractor services listed across open tabs to draft a targeted email. The assistant can also organize or group related tabs, mimicking workflow management tools.

A notable addition is ChatGPT's ability to "control" open tabs for tasks such as filling forms, sending messages, or downloading files. This functionality resembles features demonstrated by Google's Gemini AI, which can navigate and interact with web pages autonomously. OpenAI described the sidebar integration as providing "the full power of ChatGPT" alongside the user's complete conversation history, allowing continuous interaction without switching contexts.

The update does not require users to close or switch away from their current browsing activity. Instead, it operates within the Chrome environment, maintaining access to tab content while preserving user control. OpenAI has not indicated plans to expand the feature beyond Chrome or to other browsers at this time.

The development reflects a broader trend of AI assistants being integrated directly into productivity workflows. By enabling real-time interaction with live web content, the extension aims to reduce reliance on copy-pasting or manual data entry. However, the extent of user control, privacy implications, and potential for unintended interactions remain subjects of ongoing discussion among technologists and privacy advocates.

The feature is currently available to users of the ChatGPT desktop and web applications who have installed the Chrome extension. OpenAI has not disclosed specific rollout timelines for broader availability or future updates.