[Digital Today reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] OpenAI will end service for its Mac-only web browser 'ChatGPT Atlas' on Aug. 9, local time, IT outlet 9to5Mac reported.

OpenAI said Atlas may no longer open after the shutdown or may not support web browsing and agent-style workflows.

The move follows a strategic shift by OpenAI to integrate browser tools into the new ChatGPT desktop app rather than maintaining a separate browser. OpenAI said in July it would halt standalone Atlas service and reorganise features around the ChatGPT desktop app. After a short wrap-up period, Atlas is set to stop working on Aug. 9.

Users need to immediately check how data will be migrated. Atlas bookmarks will not be transferred automatically. OpenAI recommended exporting bookmarks as an HTML file and separately saving important pages before the Sunday deadline. ChatGPT conversation history is stored separately and will remain accessible.

Security support will also end. OpenAI said the browser that is shut down will no longer receive security updates. As a result, users need to move to other supported options. Cookies can be exported when possible, but not all items are transferred automatically.

OpenAI's primary alternative is the new ChatGPT desktop app. The app's browser features support multiple tabs, downloads, website logins, autofill, password management, extensions and persistence. OpenAI acknowledged that this environment is somewhat different from a browser-centric experience.

Options differ for those who need an existing Chrome setup. OpenAI recommended using the ChatGPT Chrome extension for tasks that require an existing Chrome profile or login session, open tabs or other extensions. The desktop app also includes a 'computer use' feature that can control Safari if permissions are granted.

The shutdown shows OpenAI is shifting its focus from the browser itself to handling AI tasks within the ChatGPT app. Instead of maintaining a separate browser, it is pairing an in-app browser with extensions. The trend also aligns with other AI services. Anthropic is also choosing a dual structure that combines a limited in-app browser with a Chrome extension.

Other AI browsers available on Mac include Comet, Dia, Opera Neon and Aside. For OpenAI users, the most urgent task now is to manually organise Atlas bookmarks and necessary pages before Aug. 9.