OpenAI plans to merge the Chat and Work tabs in ChatGPT's desktop app starting in December, according to a post on OpenAI's website. The change will first be tested with select users before a wider rollout.
Currently, the desktop app has a ChatGPT and Codex section, and within the ChatGPT section, separate Chat and Work tabs. OpenAI's note says Plus, Pro, and Business plans' usage allowance will be shared across ChatGPT and Codex as the agentic capabilities of Work move into the main ChatGPT experience. Codex will remain a separate experience in the desktop app.
An email to current users, reported by TechCrunch, described the integrated experience. It said users could bring in files and plugins and ask ChatGPT to build a website, create a presentation, or perform tasks on the web while reviewing its work.
OpenAI said usage will be measured in tokens, and the amount used will depend on the model and task. Instant chat will not draw from the allowance. OpenAI said it expects most users will not need to wait for usage resets more often than they do now, though some users may wait more depending on usage and model.
The source notes that rival Anthropic merged Claude's chat and Cowork functions into a single screen in September.