OpenAI, the company behind the ChatGPT platform, has begun initial testing of a new feature that will allow users to engage in group conversations — a move expected to significantly reshape how chatbots are used, according to tech site 9to5Mac.
The group chat feature is built on the newly released GPT-5.1 model, unveiled earlier this week. It enables multiple users to participate in a shared conversation while giving them full control over when the chatbot intervenes.
ChatGPT will no longer respond to every message automatically; instead, it will monitor the discussion and determine—based on context—when a response is appropriate and when it should remain silent.
Users who want the chatbot to reply must explicitly mention it in their message. The model can also react to posts with emojis and can reference users’ profile photos, introducing a more interactive and human-like group dynamic.
OpenAI has launched the early test phase in Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan. The company said it will refine the feature based on user feedback before expanding availability to additional regions.
The rollout coincides with OpenAI’s release of the ChatGPT 5.1 update on Wednesday, aimed at addressing issues raised by users of the GPT-5 model. The update introduces two enhanced versions: Instant, which focuses on speed and accuracy, and Thinking, designed to deliver more advanced reasoning and analytical capabilities.
The developments come amid rapid advancements across the tech industry, with Samsung preparing to unveil its first triple-folding smartphone next month and Microsoft gearing up to introduce digital employees in workplaces.
