OpenAI finally launches desktop app in preview

OpenAI brings ChatGPT to Windows PCs: A preview of the desktop app is now available for certain user groups. With convenient features and quick access, the app promises to simplify AI interaction – but there are limitations too.

ChatGPT takes over the Windows desktop

OpenAI is taking a significant step toward seamless AI integration: the company has released a preview version of its ChatGPT app released for Windows PCs. This early version is initially only available to ChatGPT Plus, Team, Enterprise and Education users. The app promises to make it easier to access ChatGPT’s AI capabilities right on the desktop. A highlight of the new Windows app is the ability to quickly access ChatGPT using the Alt + Space key combination.

This enables a seamless workflow where AI support is just a keystroke away. As OpenAI says on its official website: “The official ChatGPT desktop app lets you chat about files and photos.” The app also offers access to OpenAI’s latest and most powerful model, GPT-4. The Windows version of ChatGPT currently still has some limitations compared to other ChatGPT clients. Among other things, support for voice input, including Advanced Voice Mode, is missing. Some integrations with OpenAI’s GPT Store are also not yet functional.

Similar to the MacOS version, the Windows app can be minimized into a small “companion” window that can remain open alongside other applications. This allows users to use ChatGPT alongside their work without having to constantly switch between windows.

Versatile uses

The app offers a number of practical features:

• Users can upload files and photos
• Have documents summarized
• Create images with OpenAI’s DALL-E 3 image generator

This versatility makes the app a potentially valuable tool for various tasks, from text analysis to creative work. OpenAI plans to deliver a “full experience” later in the year. This indicates that the current preview version will be expanded and improved. So users can expect more features and improvements in future updates. What’s interesting is that OpenAI goes a step further than many other AI companies with this desktop app.

While most AI assistants are primarily accessible via web browsers or mobile apps, OpenAI brings ChatGPT directly to the desktop – a sign of how the company is pushing the seamless integration of AI into everyday work.