OpenAI has added its new Agent mode to the ChatGPT macOS app, making it available immediately for Plus subscribers. The integration allows Mac users to run complex, long-term tasks in the background while continuing other work, bringing the combined capabilities of Deep Research and the previous Operator agent directly to desktop users.
What you should know: Agent mode appears as a new option in the toolbar beneath the prompt window, offering an alternative way to interact with ChatGPT’s most advanced capabilities.
- Users can access Agent mode by selecting it from the toolbar or by typing “/” to bring up a menu of options that includes “Agent mode.”
- OpenAI describes ChatGPT Agent as “ChatGPT that can think and act, proactively choosing from a toolbox of agentic skills to complete tasks for you using its own computer.”
- The feature can handle complex projects like wedding planning or creating presentations based on extensive data research.
Platform availability: The rollout is currently limited to macOS, with Windows users still waiting for the update.
- Some Mac users may not immediately see the Agent icon in their toolbar as the feature continues rolling out across the platform.
- The Windows version of ChatGPT hasn’t received Agent mode integration yet, though OpenAI offers desktop apps for both operating systems.
Desktop advantages: The native app provides deeper system integration compared to browser-based ChatGPT access.
- Users can launch ChatGPT from anywhere on their desktop using Option + Space on macOS or Alt + Space on Windows.
- The desktop version also includes Advanced Voice Mode for real-time voice conversations with ChatGPT.
Security considerations: OpenAI acknowledges that Agent mode introduces new potential vulnerabilities to Mac systems.
- During the launch event, Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, warned of “a new wave of threats that target AI agents who are simply trying to be helpful.”
- The expanded capabilities mean the AI can interact more directly with computer systems, potentially creating new attack vectors for malicious actors.
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