The ChatGPT/Codex app bundles a full copy of LibreOffice (simonwillison.net)

Article summary

The ChatGPT/Codex desktop app bundles a full copy of LibreOffice, along with other software, in its cache folder. This was discovered by Simon Willison while exploring his cache folder. The app uses these bundled software to render and manipulate documents. The inclusion of LibreOffice is notable due to its large size and the potential alternatives that could have been used.

Main themes

• LibreOffice bundling
• Microsoft Office file formats
• App performance and optimization
• Native frameworks and standard libraries
• AI and software development
• Complexity of office software ecosystems

What commenters say

• Bundling a full copy of LibreOffice is a huge dependency that may not be necessary for the app's functionality.
• Using LibreOffice may be the most practical solution due to the complexity of Microsoft Office file formats and the lack of suitable alternatives.
• The use of headless versions of software or native frameworks could be a more efficient and lightweight approach.
• Rewriting or porting Microsoft Office software using AI or other means is a highly complex task that may not be feasible with current technology.
• The priority for companies like OpenAI is not to optimize app performance or reduce overhead, but rather to provide functional and reliable service.
• Native frameworks and standard libraries could be used instead of Electron to improve performance and reduce overhead.
• The complexity of Microsoft Office software and its ecosystem makes it difficult to replicate or replace with alternative solutions.