OpenAI has released an update to the recently redesigned ChatGPT app for Mac, making it easier to access conversations. The update combines ChatGPT, Codex, and the newly announced Work agent, with the previous app renamed to ChatGPT Classic.

Background of the recent update to ChatGPT for Mac

According to 9to5mac, Apple's new app caused a stir and controversy among users, leading to some modifications. The original Mac client was replaced with a larger Electron-based application with an confusing interface. It included a prominent dropdown menu to switch between Codex and Work, while the standard chat experience had a less prominent button that opened a floating window without access to conversation history or projects. Users turned to OpenAI community forums and X platform to voice their objections to this confusing change.

Modifications to ChatGPT app for Mac

OpenAI has now updated the new ChatGPT app to address some of these complaints, most notably the lack of direct access to conversations. Users can now switch between Chat and Work using a prominent toggle button at the top of the window, while a dropdown menu in the sidebar allows them to choose between regular ChatGPT and Codex.

Although the ChatGPT app interface is still confusing, users who open it solely for ChatGPT access can access the chat bot as they are used to.

However, the muddled launch, which put ChatGPT in a secondary position behind Work and Codex, as well as the move to Electron, suggests that OpenAI is more interested in competing with Anthropic than providing a seamless experience for its users.