Frequently Asked Questions

ChatGPT Atlas is a web browser developed by OpenAI that integrates ChatGPT's AI capabilities directly into the browsing experience. Unlike traditional browsers where AI is an add-on or extension, Atlas builds AI assistance into its core functionality, enabling features like intelligent search, content summarization, agent mode for automation, and contextual help while browsing.

ChatGPT Atlas was officially announced and released on October 21, 2025. The initial release is available exclusively for macOS, with plans to expand to Windows, iOS, and Android platforms in the future.

Yes, ChatGPT Atlas is available as a free download from OpenAI's official website. While the browser itself is free, some advanced AI features may require a ChatGPT Plus subscription, though this hasn't been fully detailed in the initial release.

ChatGPT Atlas was developed by OpenAI. The product is led by Ben Goodger, who previously worked on Google Chrome. Goodger joined OpenAI with the vision of creating a browser where AI integration is fundamental rather than supplementary.

Currently, ChatGPT Atlas is available only for macOS. OpenAI has announced plans to release versions for Windows, iOS, and Android, but specific release dates have not been confirmed. macOS users need version 12.0 (Monterey) or later to run Atlas.

Not yet. Windows support is listed as "coming soon" but no specific release date has been announced. Windows users interested in Atlas should follow OpenAI's official channels for updates on availability.

Atlas requires macOS 12.0 (Monterey) or later. While it will run on Intel-based Macs that meet this requirement, optimal performance is achieved on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3) processors. Macs with 8GB of RAM can run Atlas, but 16GB is recommended for the best experience, especially when using AI features extensively.

Not currently. iOS and iPadOS versions are in development but not yet released. OpenAI has indicated these platforms are priorities, but no release timeline has been provided.

Agent Mode is one of Atlas's most innovative features. It allows the AI to perform actions on websites on your behalf, with your explicit permission. For example, it can fill out forms, navigate through multi-step processes, or gather information from multiple pages. Every action requires user approval before execution, ensuring you maintain control over what the browser does.

Currently, extension support in Atlas is limited. While Atlas appears to be Chromium-based, the extension ecosystem is not as mature as Chrome's. OpenAI has indicated that broader extension support is planned for future updates. For now, if you rely heavily on specific Chrome extensions, you may want to keep Chrome installed alongside Atlas.

Atlas can function as a basic browser offline, allowing you to view cached pages and previously loaded content. However, most AI features require an active internet connection to function. Features like search integration, content summarization, and Agent Mode will not work without internet access.

Yes, Atlas includes functionality to import bookmarks, browsing history, and passwords from other browsers including Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge. The import process is straightforward and can be initiated from Atlas's settings menu.

Yes, Atlas includes standard browser developer tools similar to those found in Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers. You can inspect elements, debug JavaScript, monitor network activity, and more. The developer tools also include some AI-enhanced features like code explanation and debugging assistance.

Atlas's privacy model is opt-in for AI features. When you use AI-powered features like summarization or search, relevant page content is sent to OpenAI's servers to process your request. However, you can disable these features if you prefer. Private browsing mode ensures no data is sent to AI services. OpenAI has stated that browsing data is not used to train models without explicit consent.

Yes, Atlas includes an enhanced private browsing mode. In this mode, not only is your local browsing history not saved, but all AI features that would send data to OpenAI's servers are automatically disabled. This ensures complete privacy during your browsing session.

Atlas is built on modern web technologies with regular security updates. As a Chromium-based browser, it benefits from the extensive security work done on the Chromium project. OpenAI has implemented additional security measures around AI features and data transmission. However, as a newly released browser, it hasn't undergone the years of security hardening that browsers like Chrome or Firefox have experienced.

Yes, all AI features in Atlas are optional and can be disabled through the browser's settings. When AI features are disabled, Atlas functions as a standard web browser without any data being sent to OpenAI's AI services. This gives users complete control over their privacy preferences.

While OpenAI hasn't officially disclosed the rendering engine, testing and analysis suggest Atlas is built on Chromium, the same open-source project that powers Chrome, Edge, and many other browsers. This means Atlas benefits from Chromium's excellent web standards support and performance while adding its own unique features and AI integration.

AI features, particularly when actively processing content or running searches, can increase resource usage. If you're experiencing high memory or battery consumption, you can:

• Close unused tabs (like any browser)
• Disable AI features when not needed
• Use Safari for general browsing when battery life is critical
• Check for Atlas updates, as performance optimizations are ongoing

Atlas has basic built-in password management capabilities. However, integration with third-party password managers like 1Password, LastPass, or Bitwarden is still being developed. Some community members have reported mixed results with password manager extensions. This is an area where OpenAI is actively working on improvements based on user feedback.

Not yet. Synchronization of bookmarks, history, and settings across devices is listed as a planned feature but is not currently available. For now, you'll need to manually import bookmarks if you use Atlas on multiple Macs.

It depends on your needs. Consider switching if you frequently research topics, create content, or would benefit from AI assistance while browsing. However, you might want to keep Chrome if you heavily rely on specific extensions not yet supported by Atlas. Many users find value in using both browsers for different purposes.

While you can use ChatGPT as a website or extension in Chrome, Atlas integrates AI much more deeply. Atlas can automatically understand page context, offer suggestions without explicit prompting, perform actions on websites through Agent Mode, and provide a seamless AI-enhanced browsing experience without switching between tabs or windows. The integration is fundamental rather than supplementary.

"Better" depends on your priorities. Safari offers superior battery life and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. Atlas offers advanced AI capabilities and automation features. For many users, the best solution is using both: Safari for general browsing and battery conservation, Atlas for research and AI-assisted tasks.

First, try refreshing the page or clearing your cache. If the problem persists, check if the site works in another browser. As a new browser, Atlas may have compatibility issues with some websites, particularly older ones. You can report these issues to OpenAI through Atlas's feedback system. In the meantime, keep an alternative browser installed for problematic sites.

AI features require an active internet connection. If you're online and features still aren't working:

• Check if AI features are enabled in settings
• Verify your internet connection is stable
• Try restarting Atlas
• Check for Atlas updates
• If problems persist, contact OpenAI support

Atlas includes a built-in feedback mechanism accessible from the browser's menu. OpenAI is actively soliciting user feedback to improve Atlas. You can also participate in discussions in the OpenAI community forums where the Atlas team, including Product Lead Ben Goodger, has been engaging with users.

Based on OpenAI communications and community feedback, planned features include:

• Enhanced extension ecosystem support
• Cross-device synchronization
• Improved password manager integration
• Support for macOS text replacement shortcuts
• Advanced developer tools enhancements
• Platform expansion (Windows, iOS, Android)
• Additional AI capabilities and improvements

OpenAI has emphasized that Atlas development is ongoing and user feedback heavily influences the roadmap.

OpenAI has not announced any plans to charge for Atlas itself. However, some advanced AI features may eventually require a ChatGPT Plus subscription. The basic browser functionality and core AI features are expected to remain free.