Published Date:

ChatGPT Can Read Your Apps & Perplexity Can Buy Products for You

Report: 76% say they want to become an AI expert, BUT...
By

ChatGPT

1/ OpenAI has rolled out a new feature for ChatGPT on MacOS, allowing it to read code in developer-focused apps like VS Code, XCode, Terminal, and iTerm2.

This means you no longer need to copy-paste your code for ChatGPT to understand the context. It can automatically access up to 200 lines from your active window.

Though ChatGPT can’t directly modify your code (yet!), OpenAI considers this a prep stage toward its agentic systems. The feature, called “Work with Apps,” is now available for Plus and Teams users, with more app integrations, like text-based apps for writing tasks, expected to come soon. 

To try this feature on the ChatGPT MacOS app, go to your Settings and enable 'Work with Apps,' then enable apps under the 'Manage Apps' section.

2/ Another good news for Windows users: OpenAI has rolled out its ChatGPT Windows app to free-tier users, broadening access beyond its initial subscriber-only launch. (Download it here)

The app, compatible with Windows 10 and 11, offers the same functionality as the web and iOS versions, including custom GPTs, companion windows, and the advanced voice mode – plus a suite of handy keyboard shortcuts.

Google Gemini

1/ Google has launched a standalone Gemini app for iOS, giving iPhone users full and free access to its AI-powered assistant, Gemini Live. (Download it here)

Gemini Live enables free-flowing, lifelike conversations with customizable voices (10 celestial options), supports over ten languages, and is compatible with Apple's Dynamic Island to keep conversations active while multitasking.

While it can't control phone settings or integrate with Apple-native apps like Siri, Gemini Live leans on its own ecosystem advantage to let you interact with other Google services like Google Maps, Gmail, Calendar, and YouTube.

2/ Google’s modern take on clip art: Gemini-powered AI image generation in Docs lets users create custom inline images and full-bleed cover photos with just a prompt. This tool, powered by Google’s advanced Imagen 3 model, offers photorealistic detail and customizable styles like photography or watercolor.

Now rolling out to early-access (Rapid Release) accounts over the next 10 days, it will reach all eligible paid Workspace users with Gemini add-ons starting December 16.

To try it (if you’re given access), head to Insert > Image/Cover Image > Help me create an image.

Perplexity

1/ You might notice follow-up questions labeled “Sponsored” on Perplexity this week as it starts testing ads in the U.S., with brands like Indeed and Whole Foods onboard. 

Perplexity says the ads, which appear alongside answers, won’t affect response accuracy or use personal data. 

The initiative is part of an effort to fund its publisher revenue-sharing program and build a more sustainable business model as subscription revenue proves insufficient.

2/ Moreover, Perplexity’s new AI-powered shopping assistant can now buy products for you, introducing a new AI commerce experience. Features include:

  • Buy with Pro: U.S. Pro users can check out directly for select items with saved info and enjoy free shipping (thanks to its Shopify partnership). Users are redirected to the retailer’s website if the product isn't eligible.
  • Snap to Shop: Take a photo of an item to find relevant products instantly, even without knowing the name or description.
  • Best Product Picks: AI-curated product cards with key details in a simple, visual format for quick comparisons.

This feature is currently limited to users in the U.S.

Lead, Don’t Follow—Master AI Now

Are you watching others master AI while you wonder how to start? Take charge with Lead with AI PRO and become the leader your team needs.

What's included:

  • Expert guidance: Live masterclasses every month to help you integrate AI into your workflow and make an impact.
  • A connected community: Join sub-communities of senior leaders across industries to exchange actionable insights.
  • Valuable resources: Stay informed with 30+ video lessons and cutting-edge research on AI tools and applications.

Over 170 leaders from companies like Apple, Gartner, and Toyota have already transformed how they work with AI. Will you be next?

Sign Up Today

If you made it this far, reply and tell me what you'd love AI to take over in your daily workflow.

Also, please forward this newsletter to a colleague and ask them to subscribe.

If you have any other questions or feedback, just reply here or inbox me.

See you next week,

By