Technology
OpenAI releases Apple Messages plugin for ChatGPT Mac users
The desktop-only tool can read and draft texts locally, arriving amid ongoing legal friction between OpenAI and Apple.
The short version
- OpenAI launched an Apple Messages plugin that allows ChatGPT to scan, read, compose, and send iMessages on Mac computers.
- The optional feature is limited to ChatGPT Work and Codex users on macOS and requires multiple system permissions, including Full Disk Access.
- OpenAI states that the integration processes data locally and does not store conversation histories on its cloud servers.
- The rollout follows a July lawsuit filed by Apple against OpenAI alleging trade secret theft and intellectual property misappropriation.
Key facts
- OpenAI introduced the Apple Messages Plugin for desktop Mac users on ChatGPT Work and Codex plans.[CNET]
- Activating the tool requires users to modify macOS privacy preferences, including granting ChatGPT Full Disk Access, contact permissions, and automation controls.[CNET]
- OpenAI stated that the plugin operates entirely on the user's local Mac hardware and does not store message data on remote cloud servers.[CNET]
- Apple sued OpenAI in federal court in July, alleging misappropriation of intellectual property and theft of trade secrets following an initial integration partnership formed in June 2024.[CNET]