OpenAI is testing a major new feature that expands how people can interact with ChatGPT: group chats. This pilot program is currently limited to Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan, marking the first time ChatGPT has offered multi-user conversations in real time.
This rollout represents a significant shift from traditional chatbot usage models, where interactions are typically one-on-one. Similar to Microsoft’s Copilot group chat feature, ChatGPT’s version allows up to 20 people to join a shared conversation, participate simultaneously, and view the full history from the moment they enter.
The feature works seamlessly on both desktop and mobile versions of ChatGPT.
Group chats run on GPT-5.1, OpenAI’s latest model, launched just this week. Notably, rate limits only apply when ChatGPT itself responds, allowing users to keep talking without consuming message quotas. Free users will still face standard limits, while Plus and Pro users benefit from increased caps—again, only when ChatGPT sends a reply.
ChatGPT will monitor the discussion and decide whether or not to join in. Users can always call on the AI directly by typing “ChatGPT,” prompting it to respond.
New interactive features are also part of the pilot. ChatGPT can react to messages with emojis and even use participants’ profile photos to generate lighthearted, personalized images—adding a more social and dynamic experience.
OpenAI says insights from these four countries will shape the final version before a worldwide release. A timeline for broader availability has not yet been announced.
