Open AI announced Chat GPT Work on July 9th, 2026, with rapid iterations since launch. The product exists in two forms: Work Cloud (cloud-based via chatgpt.com or mobile apps) and Work Local (desktop app with local file and program access). Work Cloud offers advanced features like code execution with internet access, Luna and Terra model options, headless Chrome browser, persistent filesystem, Chat GPT Sites publishing, and sub-agent sessions.

These capabilities distinguish it from regular Chat, which Open AI claims should be used for answers and drafts rather than task completion. The key difference lies in model availability—Work provides GPT-5.6 Sol, Luna, or Terra with reasoning levels from Light to Ultra, while Chat offers 5.6 Instant through Pro tiers. Work sessions bill against Codex allowances, explaining feature disparities.

Most notably, Work's code execution environment can access the internet, unlike Chat's restricted container that blocks external interactions.