OpenAI has launched an early version of its ChatGPT app for Windows, available now for those who are subscribed to the Plus, Team, Enterprise, and Edu versions. If you are one of these users, you can find the app for free in the Microsoft Store.
OpenAI is treating this release as a beta test, mentioning in the app’s description that this is a “beta version” and that they plan to roll out the full version to all users later this year. Interestingly, the ChatGPT app is rated “T for Teen” in the Microsoft Store, a rating typically associated with video games rather than AI tools.
Upon installing the app, you’ll need to log in using a paid ChatGPT account. The interface and features of the Windows app are nearly identical to the web-based version, allowing you to use the same models, such as GPT-4o, GPT-4o with Canvas, 01-preview, and DALL-E 3. You can also upload files and images for analysis.
One of the standout features in this new version is the Alt+Space shortcut, which allows you to bring up a small ChatGPT window instantly. However, this functionality only works on Windows 11—in Windows 10, this feature did not work during testing. This shortcut offers a convenient way to quickly ask ChatGPT questions without needing to open a full window.
Similar to the web version, all the processing for the Windows app happens in the cloud on OpenAI’s servers, so you’ll need a stable internet connection to use the app. This means all interactions are being processed online, ensuring up-to-date results but also implying that ChatGPT can sometimes deliver incorrect information.
OpenAI emphasizes that ChatGPT can make mistakes, and users should not depend on it as a definitive source for critical decisions. Always double-check important facts and remember that the AI may tell you what it thinks you want to hear.
For now, the app serves as a convenient extension of the web version, but more updates are expected to arrive as OpenAI refines the app and expands availability.
