OpenAI has been reshuffling its apps in confusing ways, so Adam Engst explains what’s happening with the new ChatGPT desktop app, the retirement of the ChatGPT Atlas browser, and the improved GPT-Live voice mode that delivers responses backed by current models. He also summarizes a TidBITS Talk discussion on why you might want to download videos from YouTube—for offline viewing, preservation, research, or audio extraction—and passes on the community recommendation of Downie and 4K Video Downloader Plus as the preferred tools for the job. Rounding out the issue, Adam shares how using A Better Route Planner’s premium features made his second long EV road trip stress-free, with tips on planning round trips and choosing charging stops. Notable Mac app releases this week include HoudahGeo 7.2.1, Photos Workbench 1.7.1, Tinderbox 11.8, and Ulysses 40.1.
OpenAI has replaced its Mac apps with a confusing 1.45 GB amalgamation, killed its ChatGPT Atlas Web browser after less than a year, and boosted ChatGPT Voice by backing it with more capable models.
Can’t stream a YouTube video on a plane? Worried that a rare concert recording will disappear? Need to edit a clip for a presentation? Here’s why TidBITS Talk readers download YouTube videos—and which apps they recommend.
After a mostly successful first EV road trip, Adam Engst refined his approach for a weekend drive to Boston. The result was a boring, stress-free experience—exactly what you want from travel logistics.
Watchlist
Brings improved reverse geocoding with a new service option and better offline accuracy. ($39 new, free update, 41.1 MB, macOS 12.4+)
Brings language localizations and a smattering of improvements to the Photos management utility. ($29 new, free update, 6.5 MB, macOS 12+)
Note-taking assistant improves AI connectivity, prompting, and resources. ($289 new, free update, 37.6 MB, macOS 11+)
Maintenance release for the writing app with a few bug fixes. ($5.99/$39.99 monthly/yearly subscription, free update, 63.3 MB, macOS 14+)
