OpenAI is testing a "Memory search" feature for ChatGPT, allowing users to retrieve stored information more efficiently through direct queries. This aims to improve access to memories as users accumulate more entries. Speculation suggests that this feature may launch alongside GPT-5.2 to strengthen OpenAI's position against competitors.

OpenAI has rolled back its model router for free and low-tier users of ChatGPT, defaulting them back to the faster GPT-5.2 Instant. Initial feedback showed that users preferred a quicker response over the more complex reasoning models, which can take longer and cost more to run. The model router remains for paid users, with plans to improve it for broader use in the future.

ChatGPT's global traffic share fell to 64.6%, while Google's Gemini increased to 22% in January 2026. This shift reflects growing competition and changing dynamics in the generative AI market, with other platforms like Grok and Claude also showing notable traffic movements.

OpenAI has updated ChatGPT to improve its image generation capabilities, allowing users to create and edit images more accurately and up to four times faster. This update aims to strengthen ChatGPT's position in a competitive market, particularly against Google's new AI model, Gemini 3.

ChatGPT has seen a significant decline in traffic referrals, dropping by 50% over a two-month period. The decrease raises concerns about the sustainability of its user engagement and could signal challenges in maintaining its popularity in the long term. Analysts suggest that changes in user behavior and competition may be contributing factors to this trend.

OpenAI has altered its pricing structure for the enterprise version of ChatGPT, shifting from a fixed price to a credits system that allows users to purchase upgrades and additional features. This change aims to make the product more accessible for companies as competition in the AI sector intensifies, with reported discounts on subscriptions ranging from 10% to 20%.