Run flex from ChatGPT or Claude
Fast Lexical Analyzer, generates Scanners (tokenizers). With BCD, ChatGPT, Claude and other AI apps can install and run flex 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 flex. - LinuxNo
Homebrew builds it for macOS only.
- WindowsNot in Homebrew
Homebrew does not run on Windows. If flex has a Windows build, BCD can run it in PowerShell.
About flex
- Version
- 2.6.6
- License
- BSD-2-Clause
- Installs (last 365 days)
- 16,958 · #616 in Homebrew
- Homepage
- github.com/westes/flex
- Install
brew install flex
Try asking
“Install flex with Homebrew and show me its version”
“Read flex --help and give me three useful examples for my files”
“Update flex and tell me what changed”
Depends on
Used by
Questions
Can ChatGPT run flex on my computer?
Yes. With BCD on your Mac or Linux computer and command permission turned on for it, ChatGPT runs flex there and reads the output. Claude and other apps with MCP connectors can too.
Do I need to install flex first?
No. If Homebrew is installed, the AI can run brew install flex 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.