OpenAI has rolled out an innovative feature for ChatGPT that allows for group chats, currently offered in select locations: Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan. This functionality permits users to bring in family, friends, and coworkers into discussions with AI. OpenAI is conducting initial tests in these areas to collect feedback prior to a wider launch. Group chats can be utilized across different ChatGPT tiers, such as Free, Go, Plus, and Pro.
The group chat feature prioritizes user privacy and gives them control. Personal ChatGPT memory is not in use, and no new memories are formed through group discussions. Users can tailor instructions, tone, and personality settings for each group. Safety protocols are in place, allowing any participant to remove others (excluding the group creator) and providing content protections for those under 18. OpenAI has not revealed whether data from group chats will be utilized for future AI training.
Users can join a group chat through a link, but a new group is established for every new participant, ensuring that past conversations stay private. Group chats are organized within a dedicated tab in the ChatGPT app.
To set up a group, users in eligible markets can click on the people icon in a chat, and anyone who is added can invite additional participants. Members are required to create a profile with their name, username, and photo for recognition purposes. ChatGPT group chats enhance collaboration with an AI participant that can help with various tasks, making use of functionalities like internet searches, uploads of images and files, image creation, and dictation. The default model for these interactions is the newly introduced GPT-5.1 Auto.
In group chats, ChatGPT introduces a new social feature, determining when to reply based on the context of the conversation. Triggering ChatGPT’s attention elicits a response, and it can engage with emojis and refer to profile pictures, potentially generating customized images upon request.
