Here is how to use OpenAI's new ChatGPT-powered search engine, Atlas

OpenAI has officially unveiled its latest innovation, Atlas, a browser powered by ChatGPT, exclusively for macOS users. This new offering promises to transform the browsing experience with its unique combination of internet navigation and advanced AI capabilities. CEO Sam Altman highlighted the potential of Atlas during a surprise livestream, stating that the future of browsing is evolving into a more conversational format. "We believe AI provides a rare opportunity to completely rethink what a browser can be," Altman explained. He noted that while tabs served users well, there has been little innovation in browsers for quite some time. Currently, Atlas is tailored for Mac users, with its advanced "agent mode" accessible only to Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers. Users can easily download the app, install it, and sign in with their ChatGPT credentials. During the setup process, Atlas prompts users to import data from other browsers, manage keychain access, enable features like "browser memories," and set Atlas as their default browser. The "browser memories" feature distinguishes Atlas from conventional browsers. With this option activated, ChatGPT can remember a user's browsing history, enhancing search personalization and allowing for quick access to previously visited sites. Furthermore, the agent mode elevates this personalization by enabling the AI to carry out various web-based tasks such as research, trip planning, and appointment bookings. In a live demonstration, Atlas's agent mode successfully analyzed a recipe and filled an Instacart cart with necessary ingredients, showcasing its practical capabilities. As AI integration in browsers becomes increasingly competitive, startups like Perplexity's Comet and The Browser Company's Dia are exploring similar technologies, while industry giants such as Google and Microsoft are racing to incorporate their AI assistants into Chrome and Edge. The launch of Atlas could intensify the competition between OpenAI and Google, especially as Alphabet's stock dipped over 2.2% following the announcement. With ChatGPT boasting over 800 million users, the potential for Atlas to attract a substantial user base could pave the way for new revenue streams for OpenAI, directly challenging Google's dominance. However, this shift towards an agent-based browsing experience also raises concerns regarding privacy. OpenAI's product lead, Pranav Vishnu, acknowledged these risks, reassuring users that the AI agent operates strictly within the browser tabs and cannot execute any code or access files on users’ devices. He emphasized the trade-off between the powerful functionalities offered by sharing browsing capabilities with ChatGPT and the new set of privacy considerations that arise from it. Notably, while the demo illustrated the agent adding groceries to a cart, it did not complete the purchase, highlighting a cautious approach to user security and privacy.