Artificial intelligence assistants are increasingly moving beyond simply answering questions. As AI becomes more integrated into everyday apps, the gap between what these systems can suggest and what they can carry out continues to shrink. Now, that growing reach has extended to Apple Messages on Mac, where ChatGPT can search conversations, summarize messages, draft replies and send texts with a user’s approval.

OpenAI announced the update on Aug. 20, 2026 through a new Apple Messages plugin for ChatGPT.

Once installed, the plugin allows ChatGPT to work directly with a user’s message history, making it easier to find information, summarize conversations and prepare responses. 

OpenAI also highlighted uses that extend beyond simple replies, including helping coordinate plans, identifying possible spam and finding details such as birthdays mentioned in previous messages. Even with that added functionality, the feature still includes a layer of user oversight. 

By default, ChatGPT requires approval before a drafted message is sent, allowing users to review what the system prepared before it reaches another person. 

For now, the feature is limited to Macs and does not allow ChatGPT to directly read or send Apple Messages through an iPhone.In July 2026, Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the company and two former Apple employees of misappropriating confidential information related to its hardware development. 

Apple said that the dispute concerning OpenAI’s hardware operation is separate from its existing agreement that allows ChatGPT to integrate with Apple products. As AI becomes capable of assisting with a wider range of everyday tasks, its role in daily life continues to expand. The iMessages integration is another example of that shift, showing how ChatGPT is moving beyond answering questions and becoming more involved in routine activities such as communication and planning.