OpenAI's latest update for its ChatGPT Atlas browser on Mac introduces tab groups for organizing browsing sessions. The new build also adds an Auto mode for search, which automatically switches between ChatGPT and Google based on the query. Other changes include a refreshed search results UI with a vertical layout and fixes for vertical tab mini mode.

This update follows Atlas's November release, which added vertical tabs, iCloud Passkey support, and Google as a default search option. The new Auto search mode is a notable step in blending conversational AI with traditional web search, aiming to simplify the user experience. It also prompts Safari migrants to install the iCloud passwords extension during onboarding.

Atlas remains macOS-exclusive, but OpenAI has committed to future versions for Windows, iOS, and Android. The continuous updates signal OpenAI's push to make its AI browser a viable alternative. Key questions remain about its cross-platform timeline and how its search automation will handle nuanced queries.