Overview
OpenAI has made the organizational “Projects” feature in ChatGPT available to all users, including those on the free tier. In addition, a powerful new “Branch in new chat” toggle allows users to split ongoing conversations into focused threads—streamlining workflows and enhancing clarity.OpenAI Help Center

What’s New?

  • Projects for Free Users
    Previously exclusive to paid plans, ChatGPT Projects are now available to free-tier users. Each user can create smart workspaces—Projects—that bundle related chats, reference files, and custom instructions into one organized hub.OpenAI Help Center

  • File Upload Limits & Customization
    Free users can upload up to five files per project and give each Project a unique icon and color for better visual organization. Plus, users enjoy project-specific memory—keeping context intact within each Project without bleed-over from other chats.

  • New “Branch in New Chat” Option
    With this toggle, all users on the web can split an existing conversation at any point to create a new thread that carries forward previous messages. This helps manage multitasking, brainstorming, or divergent topics without losing the original chat flow.OpenAI Help Center

Why It Matters
This update profoundly boosts productivity for free users. Projects transform ChatGPT into a mini-organization hub—perfect for long-term tasks like research, planning, or creative workflows—without requiring a paid plan. Meanwhile, the branch feature adds flexibility, letting users keep relevant context while exploring different paths or topics.

Availability

  • Projects: Now live for free users on web and Android; iOS rollout is expected soon.

  • Branch toggle: Available to all web users immediately.OpenAI Help Center