ChatGPT can now read and reply to Apple Messages on Mac

OpenAI has reportedly launched a plugin for the Apple Messages app for ChatGPT Work and Codex users on Mac, enabling them to search for messages as well as compose and send replies through the chatbot on their desktop.

Engadget reported on Friday (21/8) that, according to examples provided by OpenAI, users can ask ChatGPT to search for conversations in the Messages app that they have not yet read and then help write and send replies.

Use of the feature is optional and requires user consent.

According to a Bloomberg report cited by Engadget, users must take several steps before the plugin feature for the Apple Messages app can be activated.

First, users must allow ChatGPT to access the message history stored on their Mac when a permission screen appears during the setup process.

Users will also be asked to change privacy settings in Mac System Settings to grant ChatGPT Full Disk Access.

In addition, users must give ChatGPT access to view contact names and use automation tools on the Mac.

An OpenAI spokesperson told Engadget that the plugin feature does not create an index of users’ text messages.

Furthermore, users must explicitly ask ChatGPT to retrieve context from previous messages before the chatbot reads the conversation thread.

The plugin feature will also not send messages on behalf of the user until the user explicitly approves the message drafted by ChatGPT.

“We take user privacy very seriously, and this plugin is designed to be transparent and to keep users in control of their Messages data,” the OpenAI spokesperson said.

It is not yet known whether OpenAI developed the plugin feature together with Apple. However, Apple has long been known for its strict policies regarding third-party access to its services.

The relationship between Apple and OpenAI has also appeared strained recently. In July 2026, Apple sued OpenAI, accusing it of deliberately recruiting a number of its employees to obtain confidential company information.