OpenAI rolls out ChatGPT desktop app for Macs, but there is a catch

Ahead of Apple Intelligence, OpenAI releases its ChatGPT app for Mac users.

By: Tech Desk
Bengaluru | Updated: June 26, 2024 10:23 AM IST

2 min read

ChatGPT Mac app is now available for download (Image credit: OpenAI)

OpenAI’s ChatGPT desktop app for Macs was limited to GPT Plus subscribers until recently, but now, the company has confirmed that the Mac ChatGPT app is available for download from their official website.

What is the catch, though?

The ChatGPT desktop app is compatible only with Macs powered by Apple Silicon, running on macOS 14+ or newer versions. If you are using a slightly dated Intel/x86-based Mac, this app simply won’t work.

Also read | Want the ChatGPT app on your mac? Here is an easy workaround

Unlike the iPhone/iPad version of ChatGPT, the desktop version is not listed on the App Store. You may head to openai.com/chatgpt/mac and sideload it.

Downloading ChatGPT to your Mac has many benefits, including the ability to summon ChatGPT anywhere using the “Option + Space” keys. The app also offers more control over access to the AI chatbot, including the ability to upload files such as documents or images, and the ability to search from previous conversations.

The ChatGPT app for Mac also supports the new voice mode in which users can “ask” their questions rather than giving a text prompt. The app also gives free access to the latest GPT-4 model, but with certain limitations.

If you have a fairly new Mac–– a MacBook, iMac, Mac mini or Mac Studio–– it would be great to have the ChatGPT app on it.

Do note that Macs with Apple Silicon, with the upcoming macOS Sonoma, will also get their own generative AI experiences called Apple Intelligence.

If you are a PC user, OpenAI says the ChatGPT app is also coming to your computer “later this year”.

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