OpenAI adds Agent mode to ChatGPT Mac app for Plus users

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.