Windows users rejoice as OpenAI releases app, but voice mode remains missing

OpenAI recently announced the release of their Windows app, distributed through the Microsoft Store. As expected, this application is based on Electron, meaning it incorporates the web UI inside. Nevertheless, Windows users finally have access to the app, which had been one of their biggest complaints and something they were patiently awaiting.

At the same time, these features are also available on the web, albeit hidden. The Windows app doesn’t yet include the voice mode, but it does feature the companion mode. However, both features are technically available through reverse engineering. The voice mode, including the advanced version, is also available on the web. For EU users, the standard voice mode remains in place. The voice mode UI is quite similar to what’s available on macOS, featuring voice selection and control buttons, and it works smoothly. However, it’s still unclear when exactly it will be fully released.

One of the screenshots on the Microsoft Store listing features ChatGPT’s companion mode with Visual Studio open in the background, displaying code. It’s unclear whether we can expect any official integration with Visual Studio Code in the future, allowing users to work with VS Code alongside the Windows app. This part remains speculative for now.

Lastly, the latest macOS update has introduced an update to the voice UI, bringing it more in line with the macOS app’s style. However, the voice window is now fixed as part of the main application window, meaning it can’t be dragged around. This also prevents users from seeing the chat while in voice mode. Though this change might seem insignificant, it could limit productivity for users who want to multitask in the desktop app. Time will tell if this aspect will be revised in the future.