ChatGPT users on Mac face a notable modification. Voice conversation capabilities in the macOS desktop application will be discontinued starting January 15, 2026. OpenAI communicated this decision through official channels, framing it as part of building more cohesive voice experiences.
The removal specifically targets the Mac desktop app. Voice features remain fully operational through the ChatGPT website, accessible via any web browser, as well as through iOS and Android mobile apps. Windows desktop users also keep their voice functionality. Mac is the only desktop platform losing this capability.
The company hasn’t offered extensive reasoning for the Mac-specific change. However, the focus on unified experiences suggests the Mac app’s current voice implementation may not align with future strategic plans. Voice is becoming increasingly vital as AI companies develop new products and explore system-level integrations.
Users relying on voice features will need to adapt. People using voice for accessibility reasons, individuals who multitask with hands-free conversation, or those who prefer speaking to typing will all face disruptions. Switching to web-based or mobile platforms provides alternatives but may disrupt established workflows.
Industry observers largely believe this is temporary. Given OpenAI’s significant investment in voice technology across its offerings, permanently excluding Mac users seems unlikely. The company is probably restructuring its voice infrastructure with plans to eventually deliver improved capabilities to the Mac platform.
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