Run m4 from ChatGPT or Claude
Macro processing language. With BCD, ChatGPT, Claude and other AI apps can install and run m4 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 m4. - LinuxWorks
Homebrew on Linux has a ready-made build.
- WindowsNot in Homebrew
Homebrew does not run on Windows. If m4 has a Windows build, BCD can run it in PowerShell.
About m4
- Version
- 1.4.21
- License
- GPL-3.0-or-later
- Installs (last 365 days)
- 6,581 · #1,055 in Homebrew
- Homepage
- www.gnu.org/software/m4
- Install
brew install m4
Try asking
“Install m4 with Homebrew and show me its version”
“Read m4 --help and give me three useful examples for my files”
“Update m4 and tell me what changed”
Used by
Questions
Can ChatGPT run m4 on my computer?
Yes. With BCD on your Mac or Linux computer and command permission turned on for it, ChatGPT runs m4 there and reads the output. Claude and other apps with MCP connectors can too.
Do I need to install m4 first?
No. If Homebrew is installed, the AI can run brew install m4 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.