Run xsel from ChatGPT or Claude
Command-line program for getting and setting the contents of the X selection. With BCD, ChatGPT, Claude and other AI apps can install and run xsel 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 xsel. - LinuxWorks
Homebrew on Linux has a ready-made build.
- WindowsNot in Homebrew
Homebrew does not run on Windows. If xsel has a Windows build, BCD can run it in PowerShell.
About xsel
- Version
- 1.2.1
- License
- HPND-sell-variant
- Installs (last 365 days)
- 1,321 · #2,349 in Homebrew
- Install
brew install xsel
Try asking
“Install xsel with Homebrew and show me its version”
“Read xsel --help and give me three useful examples for my files”
“Update xsel and tell me what changed”
Depends on
Questions
Can ChatGPT run xsel on my computer?
Yes. With BCD on your Mac or Linux computer and command permission turned on for it, ChatGPT runs xsel there and reads the output. Claude and other apps with MCP connectors can too.
Do I need to install xsel first?
No. If Homebrew is installed, the AI can run brew install xsel 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.