OpenAI Pilots Collaborative Group Chats Feature in ChatGPT
Executive Summary
OpenAI is launching a pilot for a new "Group chats" feature in ChatGPT, enabling multiple users to collaborate directly with each other and the AI assistant in a single, shared conversation. The feature is designed for collaborative tasks such as trip planning, project brainstorming, and group decision-making, with ChatGPT acting as an active participant. This pilot, rolling out on web and mobile to users on all tiers in select regions, marks OpenAI's first step toward evolving ChatGPT from a personal assistant into a shared collaborative platform.
Key Takeaways
* Product Name: Group chats in ChatGPT.
* Primary Function: Allows multiple users (up to 20) to interact in a shared conversation with ChatGPT as a participant.
* AI Capabilities: Responses are powered by GPT-5.1 Auto. ChatGPT has new "social behaviors," such as deciding when to respond, reacting with emojis, and referencing user profiles for personalized image generation. It can be explicitly prompted by mentioning "ChatGPT."
* Features: Supports search, image/file uploads, image generation, and dictation within the group. Custom instructions can be set for each specific group chat.
* Privacy Controls: Group chats are separate from private conversations. ChatGPT's personal Memory feature is not used or created in group chats. Users must accept an invitation to join.
* Availability: The feature is being piloted for users on Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans in Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan.
* Usage Limits: API call rate limits apply only when ChatGPT responds, and the response counts toward the usage limit of the person ChatGPT is replying to.
Strategic Importance
This move positions ChatGPT to compete with established collaboration tools by embedding a powerful AI assistant directly into group workflows. It represents a strategic shift from a personal AI tool to a central hub for shared productivity and social interaction.