OpenAI has rolled out a new feature allowing ChatGPT to read, search, and draft messages within Apple's Messages app on Mac. This integration is part of OpenAI's broader push to embed ChatGPT into users' daily workflows.
TL;DR
- OpenAI introduces ChatGPT integration with Apple Messages on Mac, enabling users to manage messages directly through the AI chatbot.
- The feature supports iMessage, SMS, and RCS chats and is available across all ChatGPT desktop app plans for macOS.
- This update comes amidst OpenAI's legal battle with Apple over alleged trade secrets theft and slower Q2 growth compared to rival Anthropic.
What happened
OpenAI has added a new Apple Messages integration to ChatGPT for Mac, allowing the AI chatbot to read, search, and draft messages within Apple's Messages app. This feature supports iMessage, SMS, and RCS chats and is available across all plans on the ChatGPT desktop app for macOS, including ChatGPT Work and Codex, according to a report in 9to5 Mac.
The integration enables users to ask ChatGPT to find information in their Messages conversations and draft replies without manually opening the app. Users can also send messages on their behalf, with OpenAI requiring user approval for both the message and recipients under default settings. The feature is currently limited to Apple silicon Macs and does not work on Intel-based machines.
This update is part of a broader ChatGPT enhancement that also includes improved syncing of pinned chats between Mac and iPhone, read-only snapshots for local Codex threads, and new collaboration features for ChatGPT-hosted Sites.
Why it matters
This integration underscores OpenAI's efforts to make ChatGPT more deeply embedded in users' everyday workflows, providing greater convenience and control over access to potentially sensitive personal data.
For developers and startups, this move highlights the increasing importance of seamless AI integrations with existing platforms and the potential for enhanced user engagement through such features.
Investors should note that this update comes at a time when OpenAI is facing a lawsuit from Apple over alleged trade secrets theft and slower growth compared to rival Anthropic. OpenAI's revenue rose 18% quarter over quarter to $6.7 billion in the second quarter, while Anthropic's sales doubled to $11.6 billion, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Key facts
- ChatGPT's new Apple Messages integration is available on all plans of the ChatGPT desktop app for macOS, including ChatGPT Work and Codex.
- The feature supports iMessage, SMS, and RCS chats and is limited to Apple silicon Macs.
- Users can ask ChatGPT to find information in Messages conversations and draft replies without opening the app.
- OpenAI requires user approval for sending messages on the user's behalf under default settings.
- The integration is part of a broader ChatGPT update that includes improved syncing of pinned chats, read-only snapshots for local Codex threads, and new collaboration features for ChatGPT-hosted Sites.
- OpenAI faces a lawsuit from Apple over alleged trade secrets theft, involving two former Apple employees who now work at OpenAI.
- OpenAI's revenue rose 18% quarter over quarter to $6.7 billion in the second quarter, while Anthropic's sales doubled to $11.6 billion, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Context
OpenAI's push to integrate ChatGPT more deeply into users' workflows reflects the broader trend in the AI industry towards creating more seamless and intuitive user experiences. As AI technologies become more advanced, the ability to integrate these tools into existing platforms and applications will be crucial for driving adoption and engagement.
The legal battle between OpenAI and Apple adds another layer of complexity to the competitive landscape of the AI industry. As both companies continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what AI can do, the outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the future of AI development and deployment.
With investors closely tracking potential IPOs from OpenAI and Anthropic, the performance and growth of these companies will be under intense scrutiny. The recent quarterly figures highlighting Anthropic's lead over OpenAI in terms of revenue growth underscore the competitive dynamics at play in the AI market.
