ChatGPT can work across browser tabs. Check these 3 things first.

The desktop browser and Chrome extension do not use the same browsing session. Check which one is open before handing over a task.

Ask ChatGPT to compare a booking page with its refund policy and it may need to move between pages. OpenAI says its desktop app’s built-in browser can work across tabs. The browser extension can bring open tabs into Work or Codex when you mention them. That is not the same as quietly reading your entire browser history.

1. Check which browser you opened. The built-in desktop browser has its own browser state; it does not use your regular Chrome profile or cookies. The Codex Chrome extension is for tasks that need your existing profile, signed-in session, open tabs or Chrome extensions. Available features depend on plan and workspace settings.

2. Check the page and account. Close unrelated tabs, confirm which account is signed in and read the website-access prompt before approving it. Start with a read-only task, such as summarizing two public pages, before asking for changes.

3. Review before anything consequential. OpenAI says ChatGPT asks for approval before sensitive actions such as sharing personal information or making a purchase. Check the exact recipient, amount or change before approving. Enter passwords in the website’s sign-in form, never in the chat.

You can manage allowed and blocked websites in the desktop app’s browser settings. A separate cloud browser uses its own remote session and does not use your personal browser’s open tabs, history, cookies or saved passwords. Product controls and availability can change, so check the current settings on your plan.

Remember: “use my browser” can mean different things. Check the browser, signed-in account and requested permission before delegating a task.

Browser tools vary by platform, plan, workspace and rollout. This article describes OpenAI products, not every AI assistant.

Sources: OpenAI Help Center, built-in desktop browser; OpenAI ChatGPT release notes, browser extension update; OpenAI Help Center, cloud browser.