Run ack from ChatGPT or Claude
Search tool like grep, but optimized for programmers. With BCD, ChatGPT, Claude and other AI apps can install and run ack on your own computer and read what it prints.
Works on
- MacWorks
Homebrew has a ready-made build; the AI can install it with
brew install ack. - LinuxPartly
Homebrew on Linux builds it from source, or install it with your distribution's package manager.
- WindowsNot in Homebrew
Homebrew does not run on Windows. If ack has a Windows build, BCD can run it in PowerShell.
About ack
- Version
- 3.10.0
- License
- Artistic-2.0
- Installs (last 365 days)
- 12,739 · #725 in Homebrew
- Homepage
- beyondgrep.com
- Install
brew install ack
Try asking
“Install ack with Homebrew and show me its version”
“Read ack --help and give me three useful examples for my files”
“Update ack and tell me what changed”
Questions
Can ChatGPT run ack on my computer?
Yes. With BCD on your Mac or Linux computer and command permission turned on for it, ChatGPT runs ack there and reads the output. Claude and other apps with MCP connectors can too.
Do I need to install ack first?
No. If Homebrew is installed, the AI can run brew install ack for you.
Is it safe?
A new computer starts read-only: running commands is turned on per computer, and BCD reaches only the folders you allow.
Try it on your computer
BCD connects ChatGPT, Claude and other AI apps to your own Mac, Windows or Linux computer. One computer is free, with 20,000 tool calls a month and no card.
Program data from Homebrew, updated 2026-11-11. Installs are Homebrew's installs on request over the last 365 days.