Meta AI Has a Native Mac App Now, and It Seems Decent
Zac Hall, writing for 9to5Mac on August 19: The new Meta AI desktop app is version 1.0 beta at launch and weighs just 16MB once installed. Based on initial inspection, it runs natively on Apple silicon Macs with macOS 15 or later, using an AppKit and SwiftUI shell with WebKit for richer chat content. In other words, this is not an Electron app or a repackaged iPad release. It includes…
Meta AI has introduced a native Mac app, unveiling version 1.0 beta on August 19, weighing in at just 16MB upon installation. The application, which runs natively on Apple silicon Macs running macOS 15 or later, employs an AppKit and SwiftUI shell complemented by WebKit for enhanced chat content. This marks a departure from the Electron app or iPad release, incorporating Mac-specific features that elevate the desktop experience compared to the mobile counterpart.
Quick Invoke, activated by Option-Space, presents a compact Meta AI composer on top of the user's current activity. A standalone dictation function allows users to hold a specific shortcut, verbally communicate their message, and have the spoken words transcribed into any application, ranging from email and documents to code editors.
Additionally, Meta AI facilitates the attachment of another Mac window to an ongoing conversation, capturing visible text and generating a screenshot when Screen Recording and Accessibility permissions are granted, provided the user has permission to do so.
Interestingly, the app also includes a Settings window, a feature that aligns with Meta's apparent preference for native Mac applications. This strategic focus on native Mac apps contrasts with Meta's approach to Windows, as indicated by their institutional emphasis on the former.
Written by urgent.news from Daring Fireball's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
