ChatGPT Containers can now run bash, pip/npm install packages and download files (simonwillison.net)

ChatGPT has introduced significant upgrades to its Code Interpreter, now rebranded as ChatGPT Containers, which allow users to run Bash commands and install packages using pip and npm directly within the container. This marks a substantial expansion from its previous capabilities, which were limited to executing Python code. Users can now run code in various programming languages, including JavaScript, Ruby, and others, and utilize a new tool called `container.download` to fetch files from the web for processing. However, the container still cannot make outbound network requests. This advancement is noteworthy for the AI/ML community as it allows ChatGPT to engage in more versatile coding tasks, which can streamline workflows for developers and researchers. The system can dynamically install packages from internal proxies, thus integrating a broader range of programming functionalities while maintaining safety measures against potential data exfiltration. These features enhance the utility of ChatGPT in coding contexts and highlight the platform's evolving capabilities, although a call for better documentation and official release notes has been noted, emphasizing the need for clear guidance on using these new features effectively.