OpenAI acquires Sky to make Macs smarter

OpenAI’s acquisition of Sky introduces agentic AI to Mac, enabling users to interact with apps more efficiently, streamline workflows, and boost productivity through intelligent, context-aware assistance across their desktop environment

OpenAI has acquired Software Applications, Inc., the developer of Sky, an AI-powered interface for Mac computers that assists users with tasks like writing, coding, planning, and app-based actions. Sky, which has not yet been publicly released, can monitor what’s on a user’s screen and act within apps, offering a seamless, agentic AI experience aimed at improving productivity and workflow.

A vision for smarter, more intuitive computers

Sky’s co-founder and CEO Ari Weinstein emphasized the goal of making computers more intuitive and empowering. “With LLMs, we can finally put the pieces together. Sky floats over your desktop to help you think and create, and joining OpenAI allows us to bring this vision to millions,” he said. The startup’s founding team has a notable track record, having previously sold Workflow to Apple, which became the basis for Shortcuts. Co-founders Weinstein, Conrad Kramer, and COO Kim Beverett bring extensive Apple experience in products including Safari, Messages, Mail, and FaceTime.

Implications for Mac AI and the future of agentic systems

Sky’s acquisition positions OpenAI to expand its technology into everyday computing for Mac users and businesses. Apple, which is preparing an AI-enhanced Siri and other features through its Apple Intelligence platform, may take longer to develop agentic systems comparable to Sky due to privacy and security considerations. Agentic AI, capable of taking actions on users’ behalf, raises unique safety challenges, though it represents a major step toward more integrated AI on desktops.

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed, but Sky had raised $6.5 million from investors including Sam Altman, Dylan Field, Context Ventures, and Stellation Capital. The acquisition was led by OpenAI executives Nick Turley and Fidji Simo, and approved by the company’s board, marking a strategic push to bring agentic AI closer to everyday users.