OpenAI to Combine ChatGPT Chat and Work Tabs with Shared Usage Limits
OpenAI is merging ChatGPT's Chat and Work tabs starting in December, introducing shared token allowances with Codex and a unified agentic workspace.
OpenAI has announced plans to merge the Chat and Work tabs in ChatGPT starting in December. The modification aims to simplify user navigation within its desktop application while integrating agentic execution capabilities directly into the core conversational interface. Before launching widely, the updated experience will be made available to a select group of subscribers for initial testing and feedback.
The consolidation addresses navigation complexities in the current desktop client, which divides tools between a main ChatGPT section and a Codex section, with ChatGPT further split into Chat and Work. By bringing the agentic functions previously housed under Work into the main Chat interface, OpenAI allows users to seamlessly transition from brainstorming ideas to executing multi-step tasks without switching views.
Integrating agentic execution and shared token pools
Under the upcoming update, subscribers on Plus, Pro, and Business tiers will see their usage allocations unified across ChatGPT and Codex. OpenAI explained that token usage will be measured based on the amount of information processed and generated. Advanced models and intricate operations—such as building websites, designing presentations, or executing actions on the web using files and plugins—will draw more heavily from the shared token pool.
Crucially, instant chat queries will not consume usage allowances. While Codex will remain accessible as a distinct experience within the desktop app, its token consumption will now draw from the same overall allowance pool as ChatGPT. OpenAI noted that while most subscribers should not experience more frequent rate limits or reset waits, heavy utilization of complex models or tasks may cause some users to hit their usage caps sooner than before.
This structural realignment follows a similar move by competitor Anthropic, which combined Claude's chat and Cowork features into a unified single-screen interface back in September.
What it means for developers
For developers and technical teams utilizing OpenAI's desktop tools, this update introduces both interface simplification and shared resource management. Because Codex and ChatGPT will now draw from a single token allowance, developers running heavy coding workflows alongside complex agentic tasks will need to monitor their usage caps more closely.
The unified interface simplifies workflows by allowing users to bring in external files and plugins directly within the main chat stream, asking ChatGPT to construct web applications or handle browser tasks while maintaining full oversight. However, for teams seeking flexibility outside closed subscription tiers, evaluating direct API access remains an important alternative. Developers can try top AI models cheaply through one API at https://apixoai.online, which provides pay-per-token access to models like Claude, GPT, Gemini, Grok, and DeepSeek using a single key.
By consolidating the interface, OpenAI is encouraging users to view ChatGPT not merely as a conversational chatbot, but as an active agent capable of performing end-to-end projects within one continuous environment.
What to expect during the rollout
OpenAI stated in an official note titled "Understanding ChatGPT and Codex usage limits" and in subscriber communications that it is preparing carefully to prevent workflow disruptions. The rollout will begin gradually in December with select users on paid plans.
Most subscribers should experience a smooth transition without notable changes to how often their usage resets. As OpenAI gathers user feedback from the initial testing group, the unified Chat and Work experience will progressively become the standard interface across all supported desktop environments.
Source: OpenAI will merge ChatGPT’s chat and work tabs – here’s when, and what to expect — ZDNet AI. Written by the Apixo team from that report.
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