Mac users of ChatGPT should prepare for a change. Voice interaction capabilities in the macOS desktop application will be discontinued effective January 15, 2026. OpenAI announced this modification as part of its strategy to develop more cohesive voice experiences across its platforms.
The discontinuation is limited to the Mac desktop app exclusively. Voice features remain available through the ChatGPT website, which functions on any web browser, as well as through mobile applications on iOS and Android devices. Windows desktop users also retain their voice functionality. Mac is the sole desktop platform losing this feature.
The company hasn’t offered detailed reasoning for the Mac-specific change. However, the focus on unified experiences implies the current Mac implementation may have technical characteristics incompatible with future plans. As voice becomes more central to AI services, particularly with hardware expansion and deeper integrations, consistency across platforms becomes increasingly important.
Users who have incorporated voice into their routines face an adjustment period. People utilizing voice for accessibility needs, individuals who efficiently multitask with hands-free conversation, or those who simply prefer speaking over typing will all need new solutions. Web or mobile alternatives exist but may not provide identical experiences.
Industry experts generally believe this removal is temporary. Given OpenAI’s substantial commitment to voice technology in other areas, permanently excluding Mac users seems implausible. The company is likely restructuring its voice infrastructure, with plans to eventually deliver improved capabilities to the Mac platform.