Source: techcrunch.com/2026/11/02/openai-is-finally-merging-chatgpts-chat-and-work-tabs
OpenAI plans to merge the Chat and Work tabs inside ChatGPT, according to an email the company sent to users. In the ChatGPT desktop app, those tabs currently sit under the ChatGPT section, separate from Codex. The combined experience will initially go to select users for feedback before a wider rollout.
The email describes the goal as moving from an idea to completed work in one place. Users can bring in files and plugins, ask ChatGPT to build a website or presentation, or have it act on the web while they review its output. Codex will remain a separate experience in the desktop app.
OpenAI also said ChatGPT and Codex will draw tokens from the same allowance pool. The company says most users will not be affected, but depending on usage and model, some may need to wait for resets more often. TechCrunch also notes that Anthropic merged Claude's chat and Cowork functions into one screen in September.
Why it matters if you build agents
If you build workflows around the ChatGPT desktop app, the Chat and Work surfaces may change, so avoid hard-coding steps that depend on separate tabs.
Because ChatGPT and Codex will share one token allowance, heavy coding sessions could affect how quickly your chat-based work reaches its limits, so budget usage with both in mind.
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