Why AI Wants to Control Your Desktop

AI companies really want a spot on your computer.

While you can always just use ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools from a web browser, lately they’ve been pushing standalone apps for Macs and Windows PCs:

• Google has launched a Gemini Mac app, along with a Gemini-infused Google app for Windows.
• OpenAI recently pivoted its Codex app from a specialized tool for coders into a “super app” for all ChatGPT users, replacing the old ChatGPT app in the process.
• Anthropic’s Claude desktop app is the home for a new Cowork tool that can work directly with files on your computer.

While these desktop AI apps can be helpful, they are also a way for AI companies to ingrain themselves more deeply into your life, in a way that brings some risk. You will likely hear a lot about these apps in the months ahead, so let us examine what they do differently from AI tools on the web, how you can use them and why you might want to proceed with caution.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Fast Company.