A Mac automation startup is acquired by OpenAI

The company behind the unannounced Mac automation utility Sky, Software Applications Incorporated, was recently bought by OpenAI. This transaction included the team that developed the iOS software Workflow, which was later acquired by Apple Shortcuts in 2017. The specifics: On Mac desktops, Sky functions as a floating AI interface that performs operations across applications and analyzes screen content. OAI intends to include Sky's macOS features into ChatGPT, possibly giving the assistant native workflow automation and desktop app management. The acquisition follows the debut of OpenAI's Atlas browser, a Mac-only program, this week. Along with the startups Statsig, Context AI, Roi, Multi, Crossing Minds, and Alex, the transaction also adds to OpenAI's list of recent acquisitions. Even while Atlas has received a mixed welcome at first, OAI is definitely positioning itself as the AI layer for Mac users—all before the tech giant even develops a plan of its own. The action is also in line with the acqui-hire trend, which has seen AI labs recruit entire, specialized teams to develop skill in particular product categories.