With Atlas, ChatGPT can assist users directly within their browser window. This capability allows the program to understand the user's current task on a webpage and provide help without the user needing to copy and paste information or leave their current page. The browser also incorporates ChatGPT memory, enabling conversations to draw upon past chats and details to help with new tasks.
A new optional feature called "browser memories" is included in Atlas. This function allows ChatGPT to remember context from websites the user visits, which can then be used to provide more helpful assistance. For example, a user could ask ChatGPT to find job postings they viewed the previous week and create a summary of industry trends to help prepare for interviews. OpenAI states that users remain in control of this feature. Browser memories can be viewed or archived at any time in the settings, and deleting browsing history also deletes any associated memories. Users can also use a toggle in the address bar to control which specific sites ChatGPT can or cannot see.
ChatGPT Atlas also introduces an "agent mode," which is an improvement on a previously released feature. This mode, now faster and native to the browser, allows ChatGPT to perform work for the user. It is designed to be better at researching, analyzing, automating tasks, and planning events or booking appointments. For instance, a user could provide a recipe and ask ChatGPT to find a grocery store, add the ingredients to a cart, and place an order. Agent mode is available in preview for Plus, Pro, and Business users.
OpenAI has outlined several safeguards for these new agent capabilities. The agent cannot run code, download files, install extensions, or access other applications or the file system on the user's computer. It is also designed to pause on sensitive websites, such as those for financial institutions, to ensure the user is watching its actions. Despite these safeguards, the company notes that risks remain, such as the agent making mistakes or being influenced by hidden malicious instructions on a webpage.
Regarding privacy, the company states that content browsed in Atlas is not used to train its models by default. Users can choose to opt-in to training through their data controls. Parental controls set up for ChatGPT will also carry over to Atlas, and new controls are being introduced, including the option for parents to turn off browser memories and agent mode.
ChatGPT Atlas launched worldwide on macOS for Free, Plus, Pro, and Go users. It is also available in beta for Business, Enterprise, and Edu users, pending administrator approval. Experiences for Windows, iOS, and Android are planned to be released soon. Users can import existing bookmarks, saved passwords, and browsing history from their current browser upon setup. Future plans for Atlas include multi-profile support and improved developer tools.