OpenAI has officially launched the ChatGPT desktop app for Windows, offering a faster, more direct experience than the web version. This dedicated app eliminates the need for a browser, streamlining access to ChatGPT’s features.
The app is built using the Electron framework, which allows developers to create desktop applications with web technologies like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. This makes integrating ChatGPT into the Windows environment easy, providing users a smooth and user-friendly interface. The release is expected to improve overall performance and accessibility for users who prefer a standalone application to interact with ChatGPT.
A disappointing application that demonstrates the priority of MacOS users
The ChatGPT for Windows preview is now available for Plus, Enterprise, Team, and Edu subscribers, offering a more direct and efficient AI experience. This version allows users to upload files and photos for various tasks, such as generating overviews, creating business plans, or seeking creative inspiration. It also integrates with DALL-E, enabling users to generate images directly within the app.
According to OpenAI, this desktop app enhances productivity by allowing quick access through the Alt + Space command, making ChatGPT even more accessible and efficient for Windows users. Although the preview version lacks some features, like advanced speech capabilities, OpenAI is committed to launching a full version later this year, focusing on delivering a more comprehensive experience.
However, the app has been criticized for being built using Electron—a framework that wraps web apps inside a desktop shell using Chromium. This results in higher resource consumption than a native app, and it doesn’t take advantage of WebView2, the Microsoft-recommended technology for web applications. This contrasts with the ChatGPT macOS app, which is entirely native and praised for its better aesthetics and performance.
Despite these concerns, the app has been praised on social media for its ease of use and the convenience of launching it quickly with a simple shortcut. Users are generally pleased with the functionality and look forward to improvements in the final release.
