Top 3 Features that Make the ChatGPT App for Windows 11 and 10 Superior to the Web Version

• The official OpenAI ChatGPT application is now accessible for users on Windows 10 and 11, offering more than merely a web-based interface.
• This desktop version includes all the features of the web application, alongside added conveniences such as a companion chat interface, the option to upload images and screenshots, and a voice interaction mode.

OpenAI’s ChatGPT app is now available for both free and paid users running Windows 10 or 11. While it maintains a look similar to the web version, it’s impressive to discover it boasts several additional functionalities.

This app provides an alternative method for users to engage with the advanced AI directly from their Windows desktop. Although the chatbot can also be accessed through web browsers, the desktop application presents unique advantages.

Companion Chat Functionality

A standout feature of the ChatGPT app is the ease of access to the chatbot from your desktop using the “Alt + Space” shortcut, eliminating the need to launch a web browser.

The companion chat functionality mirrors the standard app but is designed with a compact interface that overlays on top of other applications.

This shortcut allows for rapid interaction with the AI chatbot. If this combination is already taken, or if you prefer a different key sequence, you can customize the ChatGPT shortcut via the “App” settings menu.

After installing the ChatGPT app, right-click on its icon and select the “Pin to Taskbar” option to ensure quick access to the chatbot.

Uploading Screenshots and Photos

The ChatGPT application from OpenAI enriches the interaction experience with features that allow for the uploading and analyzing of images. Unlike the web platform that limits file uploads, the desktop app enables users to take and share screenshots or photos directly via the webcam.

To upload a screenshot, click the “Attach files” button within the input field, then select the “Take screenshot” option.

This action opens the built-in Snipping Tool in Windows 11, allowing you to capture a complete screen, a specific section, or an entire window.

Once you’ve captured the screenshot, it will be automatically attached to your prompt. You can then type a question or inquiry related to the screenshot before submitting it.

For photographing objects or surroundings, use the “Attach files” button again and choose “Take photo” .

This activates the built-in Camera app in Windows 11, allowing you to capture and attach your photo to the text prompt. You can then form a relevant question about the image and hit Enter to ask.

Voice Interaction Mode

Installing the ChatGPT app will also provide access to the “Voice mode,” allowing users to engage with the AI chatbot through voice commands rather than typed prompts.

This feature enhances the conversational dynamics, enabling users to interrupt the AI to clarify, rephrase, or shift topics as needed.

To initiate voice mode, click the “Use Voice mode” button in the prompt area. If this is your first time using this feature, you will need to grant the app permission to access your microphone, camera (though there is no vision capability), and necessary firewall settings for cloud functionality.

You can also adjust the voice settings by clicking the button on the top right, where ChatGPT offers a selection of nine distinctive voice options including Sol, Cove, Breeze, Juniper, Ember, Vale, Maple, Arbor, and Spruce.

After selecting your preferred voice, press the microphone button to begin speaking. Tap the button again to mute or select the End button to revert to text input.

Remember, your voice interactions will be saved as chat entries in the chatbot’s history.

This overview highlights the unique features of the app compared to the web version available for Windows users, without delving into the bot’s broader functionalities, such as ChatGPT Search, which is exclusive to subscribers.