ChatGPT launches test phase for new group chat feature

ChatGPT has long established itself as an intelligent text assistant used in a wide variety of fields – from writing and programming to everyday problem-solving. Now, OpenAI is taking a new step and expanding the application with a feature that significantly changes its scope: group chats. For the first time, ChatGPT can be used in multi-person conversations. The feature is currently being tested in four countries.

The introduction of group chats in ChatGPT represents a clear evolution of its previous use. Until now, the chatbot was primarily designed for one-to-one communication. The new feature allows multiple people to interact with ChatGPT simultaneously in a shared space. This enables a new type of conversation – more structured, context-based, and better suited for many use cases.

The feature is currently in the testing phase and is only available in four countries: Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Taiwan. OpenAI plans to further develop the group chat feature based on user feedback and make it available in other regions in the future.

Group chats with ChatGPT: How the new feature works

The group chat function is based on the latest model, GPT-5.1 , which was officially unveiled the day before the announcement. The focus is on the ability to connect multiple human participants simultaneously in a chat room using ChatGPT. The AI model plays a rather unobtrusive role, intervening in the conversation only when relevant.

ChatGPT analyzes the conversation flow and decides, context-dependently, when a response is appropriate. This results in a more natural group conversation where not every sentence automatically triggers an AI reaction. If ChatGPT is to actively intervene in the conversation, this can be triggered by a specific mention – for example, by mentioning "ChatGPT" in the text. Only then will the model formulate a response.

One technical detail concerns usage restrictions: These only apply when ChatGPT itself provides a response. Messages between human participants within the group chat are not subject to any limitations. This means that communication between individuals can take place freely without immediately encountering system limitations.

ChatGPT has also been enhanced with new features specifically designed for group interactions. These include the ability to respond to messages with emojis. Furthermore, the model can access group members' profile pictures to create personalized or humorous images within the conversation. This not only improves the functionality of group chats but also enhances their visual and creative aspects.

On mobile devices like the iPhone, the interface is already adapted accordingly. The user interface displays a clear overview of the group chat with easily recognizable contributions from individual participants and the AI. This makes it easy to communicate with multiple people and ChatGPT even on smaller screens.

ChatGPT group chats: Not yet available everywhere

Currently , the group chat feature is only available to users in Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Taiwan. OpenAI is closely monitoring usage patterns and gathering feedback to further optimize its functionality. It is not yet known when or in which regions the feature will be rolled out next. The goal is to release the feature globally once it is stable and mature.

The introduction of group chat marks an important step in the development of ChatGPT. This makes the AI more flexible to use, especially in team contexts, for collaborative brainstorming, discussions, or decision-making. The separation between human-to-human and human-to-AI communication is thus further blurred.

With GPT 5.1 and new features like emoji reactions and personalized image generation, ChatGPT gains not only new technical capabilities but also a stronger social profile. The testing phase should show how well these innovations perform in everyday use and whether AI-powered group communication can become a new standard tool for digital collaboration. (Image: OpenAI)