In a surprising twist of fate, OpenAI has finally rolled out an early version of its ChatGPT desktop app for Windows, breaking a five-month silence since it first debuted on macOS. This move comes after years of anticipation, especially given Microsoft's hefty investment in OpenAI. So what do Windows users need to know about this new development, and is it worth signing up for a $20 monthly subscription?
In the end, while OpenAI's entry into Windows is undoubtedly a crucial step forward, the launch's limitations and the pricing model might leave many users hesitant. Will this app fulfill its promise, or will it fall short of expectations? Only time will tell!
As you navigate through these new features, feel free to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below or on our forum!
Source: Windows Central OpenAI ships ChatGPT to Windows, 5 months after snubbing Microsoft for Apple
What’s New?
OpenAI's ChatGPT application for Windows is now in the testing phase, but there's a catch: it’s currently accessible only to subscribers of ChatGPT Plus, Enterprise, Team, and Edu plans. In simpler terms, you’ll need to reach into your pockets for a monthly subscription if you want to dive into this AI experience. Despite these restrictions, the early access promises some exciting features, such as the ability to chat about files and photos while harnessing the latest advancements in OpenAI's models, including o1-preview, touted as their "newest and smartest model."Key Features of the ChatGPT Windows App:
- File and Photo Interaction: Users can engage directly with files and photos, a step up from the web-based version.
- New Model Access: Incorporates the latest version of OpenAI's large language model technology.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Quickly access the app with an Alt + Space shortcut for faster responses.
Compatibility Concerns
The app is compatible with Windows 10, but it comes with significant limitations:- No Advanced Voice Mode: Unlike its macOS counterpart, Windows users won’t be able to utilize the Advanced Voice Mode feature.
- Lack of GPT Store Integration: The GPT Store, which offers custom chatbots, is notably missing.
Why the Wait?
OpenAI’s delay in releasing the Windows app raised eyebrows, especially since they initially prioritized macOS. Former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati defended the company's strategy, stating, "We’re just prioritizing where our users are." But given Microsoft's significant backing of OpenAI, one cannot help but wonder if alienating the Windows user base was a strategic blunder.The Market Landscape
Despite the app's slow rollout, Windows 10 continues to dominate the desktop OS market with a market share of around 62.79%, while Windows 11's share has been slowly increasing—now resting at 33.37%. Microsoft’s aggressive push toward promoting Windows 11 has involved tactics such as multi-page pop-up ads, reflecting their commitment to upgrade their user base amid upcoming support cessation for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025.Should You Subscribe?
If you're a committed user of ChatGPT's ecosystem and eager to explore its features on Windows, the subscription may be worth considering—especially if you already use plans like ChatGPT Plus. However, if you're merely curious and don't plan to engage deeply with AI, waiting for broader access might be more aligned with your needs.In the end, while OpenAI's entry into Windows is undoubtedly a crucial step forward, the launch's limitations and the pricing model might leave many users hesitant. Will this app fulfill its promise, or will it fall short of expectations? Only time will tell!
As you navigate through these new features, feel free to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below or on our forum!
Source: Windows Central OpenAI ships ChatGPT to Windows, 5 months after snubbing Microsoft for Apple