A key voice based feature used by many Mac users on ChatGPT is set to be discontinued soon, prompting users to rethink how they interact with the AI tool on macOS.
OpenAI has confirmed that the Voice experience within the ChatGPT macOS app will be retired from January 15, 2026. According to the update notes, the move is intended to help the company focus on building more “unified and improved voice experiences” across platforms.
The change applies only to the ChatGPT desktop app on macOS. OpenAI has clarified that voice conversations will continue to be available on chatgpt.com, as well as on iOS, Android and Windows devices. Other features on the Mac app will remain unchanged, including text chats, saved conversations and existing tools.
While OpenAI has not shared specific reasons for removing Voice from the Mac app alone, the announcement suggests that the current macOS implementation does not align with the company’s future plans. Voice interaction is increasingly becoming a central part of how users engage with AI, especially as OpenAI prepares deeper system level integrations and new hardware.
Industry observers believe the feature is not being dropped permanently. Instead, it is likely a temporary step while OpenAI redesigns or upgrades its voice architecture. The existing Mac setup may not fit into that broader roadmap.
The decision will still affect users who depend on hands free conversations, particularly those using voice for accessibility, multitasking or long discussions. From mid January 2026, such users will need to switch to the web version or use mobile devices to continue using Voice mode.
Until the cut off date, ChatGPT’s Voice feature on macOS will continue to work as it does today. However, Mac users who prefer speaking over typing may want to prepare for a short term change until OpenAI introduces a new version of voice support in the future.
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