OpenAI has launched its group chat feature worldwide, enabling up to 20 users to collaborate in shared conversations with AI assistance. The function, previously available only in Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan, represents the first shared ChatGPT experience for regular users.
How Group Chats Work
“With group chats, you can bring friends, family, or coworkers into a shared space to plan, make decisions, or work through ideas together,” OpenAI explained. The feature supports activities ranging from trip planning and work projects to casual discussions.
Starting groups is straightforward. A new people icon in the app’s top corner generates shareable links. Anyone with a ChatGPT account—free or paid—can join using these links, then send messages, share ideas, and tag ChatGPT for assistance.
Key Features and Capabilities
Each group accommodates up to 20 members, with new participants accessing complete chat history—unlike messaging platforms where latecomers miss context. All members except administrators can remove participants, rename groups, or add details helping ChatGPT customize responses.
The AI operates differently in group settings, listening before responding rather than replying to every message. It intervenes when sensing necessity or when directly tagged, functioning as an attentive but non-intrusive team member.
Behind the scenes, GPT-5.1 Auto powers the feature, intelligently selecting optimal models for each participant. ChatGPT Pro subscribers may receive richer responses than free-tier users within identical conversations, creating tiered experiences within shared spaces.
Privacy and Safety Protocols
OpenAI has implemented specific privacy measures. Private memory doesn’t apply to group chats, meaning the AI won’t retain shared information. Participants can leave groups anytime, with only creators immune from removal.
When minors join, ChatGPT automatically activates sensitive-content filters for all participants. Parents can disable the feature entirely for younger users.
Full Functionality Integration
All core ChatGPT tools—web search, image uploads, file sharing, dictation, and image generation—function within group chats. Users can simultaneously brainstorm projects, analyze budgets, design itineraries, and generate visual content without switching applications.
Collaborative AI Future
The global rollout positions ChatGPT group chats as digital collaboration spaces combining brainstorming rooms, study circles, and virtual meeting areas.
The feature represents OpenAI’s expansion from individual AI assistance toward collaborative intelligence platforms, potentially transforming how groups approach shared projects and decision-making processes in both personal and professional contexts.
