OpenAI has recently introduced a new group chat feature for ChatGPT, allowing users to collaborate directly within the app. This feature is currently being tested in select regions such as Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan. Users on both mobile and web platforms, including Free, Plus, and Team users, can access the group chat feature.
The purpose of this pilot is to explore how people engage in group conversations within ChatGPT. OpenAI describes this as a small first step towards creating a more shared experience within the app. Early users will have the opportunity to provide feedback, which will help shape how the feature expands to more regions and offerings in the future.
In these group chats, private messages and personal ChatGPT memory remain completely private. Group chats are invitation-only, and members have the option to leave at any time. While most participants can remove others from the group, the creator of the group can only leave voluntarily. For users under 18, there are additional safeguards and parental controls in place to ensure a safe environment.
Starting a group chat is simple – users can tap the people icon and add participants directly or by sharing a link. Each group can include 1 to 20 people, and if someone is added to an existing chat, a new group is created without altering the original conversation. Group chats are organized in a labeled sidebar for easy access, with each group having a short profile.
In group chats, ChatGPT’s capabilities include search, image generation, file uploads, and dictation, all handled by GPT-5.1 Auto. Usage limits only apply when ChatGPT responds, not when human participants interact. ChatGPT has been equipped with new social skills for group chats, knowing when to engage and when to remain silent. Users can tag “ChatGPT” to prompt a response, and ChatGPT can react with emojis and use profile photos to create personalized images for the conversation.
This group chat feature marks OpenAI’s progression towards transforming from a simple AI assistant into a more social platform. In addition to the group chat feature, OpenAI recently launched Sora 2, a standalone social media app with a TikTok-style feed for sharing AI-generated videos. This app includes algorithmic recommendations based on user activity and location, parental controls, and direct messaging capabilities.
