ChatGPT for macOS with new integration into developer tools

The ChatGPT app for Mac is being expanded to include the ability to read screen content in some macOS apps for chatbots. The focus is primarily on developer tools. Supported apps from which content can be read include Apple’s Xcode programming environment as well as tools such as VS Code, TextEdit, iTerm2, and the Terminal app.

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ChatGPT for macOS was first released by OpenAI a few months ago. The major update introduced now will be available first to paying users with a ChatGPT Plus or Teams subscription. Enterprise and education customers should have access within a few weeks. According to media reports, plans are underway to make the new feature available to all users – although there is no exact timetable for this yet.

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Advice without copying and pasting

For example, with third-party app integration, ChatGPT can read code in Xcode and make suggestions. Developers no longer need to manually copy and paste content into ChatGPT in the development tools. Apple blog 9to5Mac reportsIt’s possible to read content from multiple apps at the same time, which is useful for projects with multiple development tools.

OpenAI is already planning to support more apps in the future. This feature is currently only available for the Mac version of the native ChatGPT app, but only for paying customers. With data security in mind, it should be adjustable when and how ChatGPT can access other apps. OpenAI uses the accessibility API for screen readers that Apple provides. For this reason, ChatGPT cannot write the proposed code directly into Xcode and cannot interpret images and videos. Other AI tools like GitHub Copilot can also write code directly into development apps.

Apple also plans ChatGPT integration

Also, ChatGPT will be more closely integrated into the Mac operating system through a new function planned by Apple in macOS 15.2 – it will then be possible to access ChatGPT via Siri. However, there is currently no provision for interaction with apps.

(MKI)