OpenAI has launched a significant update for its ChatGPT app on macOS, now enabling integration with third-party applications such as Xcode, VS Code, Terminal, and iTerm2. This enhancement allows developers to seamlessly interact with ChatGPT, improving their coding workflows. Gone are the days of tedious copy-and-paste; developers can now utilize ChatGPT’s capabilities directly within their development environments, streamlining their processes with ease and efficiency.
Access to this new feature is restricted to users with paid ChatGPT subscriptions
The latest ChatGPT update introduces a valuable feature that allows the AI to read and interpret code from user-selected applications. In a demonstration with TechCrunch, OpenAI showcased how an employee managed an Xcode project—a model of the solar system missing the Earth. By instructing ChatGPT to “add the missing planets,” the chatbot automatically generated the line of code for the Earth, effectively mirroring the existing project format. This level of interaction is expected to enhance coding practices significantly, allowing developers to handle code-related inquiries in real-time without switching contexts.
However, this integration has its limitations. Unlike GitHub’s Copilot, which provides deeper coding assistance within Xcode, ChatGPT accesses content through the macOS Accessibility API for screen readers. This means it can read text effectively but cannot interpret images or videos, which limits its application to text-based tasks.
Access to this new feature is restricted to users with paid ChatGPT subscriptions, specifically ChatGPT Plus and Team subscribers. Benefits for Enterprise and Education users are expected in the coming weeks as OpenAI aims to roll out broader access in the future. Users will also maintain control over which apps ChatGPT can access, ensuring a level of privacy in this interaction.
In a broader context, Apple is currently working to integrate ChatGPT functionalities into Siri with the anticipated macOS 15.2 beta. This feature would allow users to inquire about the content they’re viewing on their screens. However, unlike the ChatGPT app, this Siri integration won’t yet interact directly with specific applications.
These advancements underline a growing intertwining of AI with coding tools, paving the way for higher productivity and efficiency in software development tasks. OpenAI’s commitment to enhance the coding experience through AI applications could profoundly impact how developers approach problem-solving and project management. As they continue to integrate more apps and features, this development positions OpenAI as a significant player in the coding assistance landscape.
With more features and capabilities planned for future updates, users can look forward to a more integrated and efficient experience. The ChatGPT app for macOS can be downloaded directly from OpenAI’s website, allowing users to explore these new capabilities while benefiting from an AI-enhanced workflow.
Featured image credit: Wesson Wang/Unsplash
