Great news for macOS users: OpenAI’s popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT, is now accessible to all macOS users, the company announced on Tuesday. This launch coincided with Apple’s WWDC 2024 in June, where OpenAI and Apple jointly revealed new integrations between ChatGPT and Apple’s operating systems for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Seamless Integration with macOS
On Mac, users can effortlessly summon ChatGPT using the keyboard shortcut Option + Space, after installing the new ChatGPT app. This shortcut will feel familiar to macOS users who often use Command + Space to access Spotlight Search. Instead of traditional search, however, this combination brings up ChatGPT, providing access to a vast world of knowledge with just one keystroke. Once activated, ChatGPT appears as a chat interface overlaying the screen.
Features of the macOS ChatGPT App
The macOS ChatGPT app comes with several useful features:
- Quick Access: Summon ChatGPT using the Option + Space shortcut.
- User-Friendly Interface: The chat interface is designed to be intuitive and easy to use.
- File and Photo Uploads: Users can upload files and photos directly via the app.
- Screenshot Discussion: Capture and discuss screenshots within the app.
- Voice Interaction: Speak directly to ChatGPT from your desktop.
- Conversation History: Search through past conversations easily.
Initially, the app rolled out to Mac users starting with Plus subscribers. However, OpenAI announced in a recent post on X that it’s now available to everyone.
Beyond macOS: Expanding OpenAI and Apple Integration
This integration isn’t limited to macOS. At WWDC, a more expansive deal was announced, bringing ChatGPT to iPhones and iPads, including through Siri and other AI-enhanced areas like Writing Tools. These integrations, powered by GPT-4o, are set to roll out to Apple customers later this year with the launch of Apple’s newest operating systems.
The GPT-4o Model
The macOS app launch was initially overshadowed by the announcement of GPT-4o, OpenAI’s flagship generative AI model. GPT-4o offers advanced intelligence capabilities, including handling text, speech, and video. Its multimodal capabilities and ability to understand various forms of media give it the name “omni” (represented by the “o”).
Availability for All
ChatGPT’s desktop app is available to both free and paid users. This development ensures that more users can take advantage of the sophisticated AI chatbot, making it a valuable tool for a variety of tasks right from their desktops.
OpenAI’s commitment to making advanced AI accessible continues to push the boundaries of how we interact with technology, making everyday tasks easier and more efficient. With the new macOS app, accessing the powerful capabilities of ChatGPT is now just a keystroke away.
