Run re2 from ChatGPT or Claude
Alternative to backtracking PCRE-style regular expression engines. With BCD, ChatGPT, Claude and other AI apps can install and run re2 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 re2. - LinuxWorks
Homebrew on Linux has a ready-made build.
- WindowsNot in Homebrew
Homebrew does not run on Windows. If re2 has a Windows build, BCD can run it in PowerShell.
About re2
- Version
- 2025-11-05
- License
- BSD-3-Clause
- Installs (last 365 days)
- 4,726 · #1,261 in Homebrew
- Homepage
- github.com/google/re2
- Install
brew install re2
Try asking
“Install re2 with Homebrew and show me its version”
“Read re2 --help and give me three useful examples for my files”
“Update re2 and tell me what changed”
Depends on
Used by
grpc · apache-arrow · onnxruntime · bloaty · or-tools · uhd · sysdig · mavsdk · recc · manticoresearch · bulk_extractor
Questions
Can ChatGPT run re2 on my computer?
Yes. With BCD on your Mac or Linux computer and command permission turned on for it, ChatGPT runs re2 there and reads the output. Claude and other apps with MCP connectors can too.
Do I need to install re2 first?
No. If Homebrew is installed, the AI can run brew install re2 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.