ChatGPT on Macbook gets ‘Record Mode’: What is it and how to use

ChatGPT

ChatGPT Plus users on macOS can now use a new ‘Record Mode’ feature that transcribes system audio and creates instant summaries and action points — all without joining a call.

OpenAI has officially extended the ‘Record Mode’ feature to individual ChatGPT Plus subscribers using the macOS desktop app. Previously available only to Team, Enterprise, and Education users, this feature is now rolling out globally for all Plus users.

The announcement was made via OpenAI’s official X account, which posted: “Plus users, the mic is yours. Record mode is now available to ChatGPT Plus users globally in the macOS desktop app.”

What is Record Mode in ChatGPT?
Record Mode allows users to capture and transcribe system audio directly through the ChatGPT Mac app. Whether it’s a virtual meeting, a voice note, or a webinar, the tool can listen to audio playing on your device without needing to join the session as a participant.

Once active, ChatGPT processes the audio using AI to deliver structured transcripts. These transcripts are stored as ‘canvases’ within your chat history. From there, users can generate emails, meeting summaries, code snippets, project outlines, and more — all based on the captured content.

The interface includes a small ‘rec’ button in the app. Once pressed, the app starts recording system audio locally, uploads it to OpenAI servers for processing, and then presents a summarised view that’s private to the user. The system also maintains contextual continuity, allowing ChatGPT to refer back to older recordings and enhance ongoing chats with richer context.

While Record Mode is designed to improve productivity and note-taking, OpenAI reminds users to ensure compliance with local privacy laws. A support note on the ChatGPT website states:
“Please make sure you check local laws and always get the right consents before recording others. You're responsible for making sure that your use of record mode follows applicable laws, which may vary depending on where you and the people you're recording are located.”

How to use Record Mode on macOS
Click the ‘Record’ icon at the bottom of any ChatGPT conversation.

Speak naturally — ChatGPT transcribes your audio in real time.
Press the stop button to finish the recording.
Choose to resume, send, or delete the session.
Click the “X” in the top-left corner to cancel a recording mid-way.
Once uploaded, ChatGPT will open a private canvas showing the structured summary and transcript.