It’s the end of a very short road for ChatGPT Atlas, OpenAI’s dedicated web browser for Mac. OpenAI has shared details about what happens when ChatGPT Atlas shuts down this weekend.
ChatGPT is the new ChatGPT Atlas
As we reported in July, OpenAI is discontinuing its standalone Atlas browser in favor of browser tools built into the new ChatGPT desktop app. Atlas is scheduled to stop working on August 9 following a brief wind-down period.
OpenAI warns that Atlas may no longer open, browse, or support agentic workflows after that date. Because the discontinued browser will not continue receiving security updates, users will want to move to a supported alternative.
The transition may require some manual housekeeping for some. Atlas bookmarks will not transfer automatically. OpenAI recommends exporting bookmarks as an HTML file and saving important pages before Sunday’s deadline.
Cookies may have export options where available. ChatGPT conversation history is stored separately and will remain available.
AI browser alternatives
OpenAI is directing users toward the new ChatGPT desktop app. Its built-in browser supports multiple tabs, downloads, website logins, autofill, password management, extensions, and persistent browser state. However, it’s not exactly a browser-first experience.
The company recommends its Chrome extension when a task requires an existing Chrome profile, signed-in session, open tabs, or other extensions. ChatGPT’s desktop app also includes a “computer use” functionality that can optionally let it control Safari when granted permission.
There are plenty of other AI browser options on the Mac, including Comet, Dia, Opera Neon, and Aside. Anthropic is taking a similar two-track approach: Claude Code offers a sandboxed in-app browser, while its Chrome extension can work with existing logged-in sessions.
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