OpenAI has recently acquired Software Applications, Inc., the creators of Sky, an AI-driven natural language interface designed for Mac computers. Although Sky had not been publicly released, it was developed to assist users seamlessly throughout their daily tasks, including writing, planning, and coding. By analyzing on-screen content, Sky can interact with various applications, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity.
This acquisition signifies OpenAI’s commitment to embedding its advanced AI technologies into everyday consumer and business environments, particularly within the Mac ecosystem. Ari Weinstein, co-founder and CEO of Software Applications, Inc., expressed enthusiasm about the merger, stating, We’ve always wanted computers to be more empowering, customizable, and intuitive. With LLMs, we can finally put the pieces together. That’s why we built Sky, an AI experience that floats over your desktop to help you think and create. We’re thrilled to join OpenAI to bring that vision to hundreds of millions of people.
The team behind Sky brings a wealth of experience in developing intuitive software solutions. Weinstein and Conrad Kramer previously co-founded Workflow, an automation app that Apple acquired and rebranded as Shortcuts. Both continued their tenure at Apple for several years before establishing Software Applications in August 2023. Additionally, Kim Beverett, Sky’s co-founder and COO, served nearly a decade at Apple, contributing to projects like Safari, WebKit, Privacy, Messages, Mail, Phone, FaceTime, and SharePlay.
Apple has been progressively integrating AI capabilities into its products. The company plans to launch an enhanced version of Siri with advanced AI features in the coming year. Current AI-driven functionalities under Apple’s Apple Intelligence initiative include writing assistants, live translation, image creation, and visual search. Furthermore, Apple collaborates with OpenAI to route complex Siri queries to ChatGPT, ensuring comprehensive user assistance. Apple Intelligence is designed to operate seamlessly across platforms, including Mac.
In addition to these developments, Apple offers the Foundation Models framework, granting developers access to local AI models for direct integration into their applications. However, Apple’s strong emphasis on user privacy may pose challenges for agentic systems like Sky, which require screen access to perform tasks on behalf of users. Implementing such systems necessitates careful consideration to maintain user trust and data security.
The financial terms of OpenAI’s acquisition of Software Applications, Inc. have not been disclosed. According to Pitchbook data, the startup had previously secured $6.5 million in funding from investors, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Figma CEO Dylan Field, Context Ventures, and Stellation Capital. OpenAI clarified that Altman’s investment was a passive interest through an investment fund.
The acquisition was spearheaded by Nick Turley, Head of ChatGPT, and Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s CEO of Applications, and received approval from OpenAI’s board.
