OpenAI Launches Locked Chats Feature to Secure Sensitive Conversations
OpenAI introduces a “Locked Chats” feature that lets users protect conversations with a PIN, Face ID, or Touch ID.
In Brief
- •OpenAI introduces a “Locked Chats” feature that lets users protect conversations with a PIN, Face ID, or Touch ID.
- •Locked chats are stored in a separate section and are not included in the regular chat history or search results.
- •The feature works across all paid and free plans except ChatGPT for Healthcare and does not add end‑to‑end encryption or change data retention.
- •Resetting the PIN permanently deletes all locked content, and the feature is not available for temporary, archived, group, or scheduled‑task chats.
Why It Matters
OpenAI’s new Locked Chats feature gives users a way to keep personal or sensitive conversations private when sharing devices, addressing growing concerns about privacy in AI‑powered chat applications. While the feature does not provide end‑to‑end encryption or alter data retention, it adds a practical layer of protection that could influence how users choose to engage with ChatGPT for personal or confidential matters.
Key Details
- Feature Launch Date
- 2026-10-20
- Locking Methods
- PIN, Face ID, Touch ID
- Availability
- Free, Go, Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, Edu
- Reset Effect
- Permanent deletion of locked content
- Memory Scope
- Separate memory for locked chats
Original Reporting & Sources
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