OpenAI has expanded ChatGPT’s capabilities on Mac by adding support for Apple’s Messages app. The integration allows ChatGPT to read, write and send text messages, search conversations, and provide summaries and other information from chats.
New ChatGPT access to Messages
The feature requires user consent and runs locally on the Mac, according to OpenAI. It uses existing macOS tools, including AppleScript and Accessibility, to interact with the Messages app. OpenAI also said the feature does not create an index of all a user’s messages.
Setting up the integration involves several permissions. ChatGPT displays a permission screen explaining that it will access the computer’s on-device message history. Users must also change privacy settings in Mac System Settings, including enabling Full Disk Access. Additional permission is required for contact names and automation tools, similar to the settings used by AI automation software such as Codex Computer Use.
The development could raise privacy concerns because Apple has strongly positioned itself around protecting user data and message content. An Apple representative did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The update also comes amid wider tensions between Apple and OpenAI. Apple sued OpenAI last month, alleging that the AI company stole information about upcoming products.
ChatGPT expands control across Apple devices
OpenAI recently added support for analysing information from the Health app on iPhone and iPad. Apple’s operating systems require users to specifically approve sharing their health data with ChatGPT.
ChatGPT already works with Mac applications such as Xcode, Notes and Terminal. However, access to Messages could attract greater attention because of the sensitive nature of personal conversations.
The feature also overlaps with capabilities expected from Apple’s upcoming Siri AI, which is designed to search users’ messages and other on-device content. That access could give Apple an advantage over third-party AI assistants.
Apple has previously moved against similar integrations. The company recently shut down Beeper Mini, an app that enabled iMessage functionality on Android.
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