OpenAI AI Updates: October 18, 2026

1. ChatGPT Chrome Extension Can Now Read and Act on Open Tabs

OpenAI. OpenAI updated its ChatGPT Chrome extension so users can point ChatGPT at specific open tabs with @chrome. In chat mode it pulls information from several tabs at once, for example comparing products by size, shipping time and return policy across stores, while work mode uses Computer Use to act in tabs: sending messages, filling out forms, downloading files and grouping tabs. The upgraded sidebar also shows full chat history next to the current page, and the extension works with all ChatGPT plans. Source (announcement)