OpenAI launches ChatGPT Work enterprise AI agent, unveils GPT-5.6 model

Caroline Ryan Sat, July 11, 2026 at 3:01 PM PDT 5 min read

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OpenAI is pushing ChatGPT beyond a question-and-answer tool and deeper into workplace automation with ChatGPT Work.

The new AI agent can break down complex assignments, work autonomously over extended periods, and generate spreadsheets, presentations, documents, and web applications, OpenAI said. The company also introduced GPT-5.6, a new model that delivers stronger multi-step reasoning, better adherence to templates, and improved use of reference materials.

The launch comes as AI companies race to win enterprise customers by embedding AI agents into everyday business workflows. Rival Anthropic has made a similar push with Claude Cowork, designed to help users plan and execute complex, multi-step tasks.

Enterprise Adoption Expands Beyond Developers

OpenAI said adoption of its workplace tools has already expanded beyond software developers. The company reported that Codex, its AI coding agent now integrated into ChatGPT Work, has surpassed 5 million weekly users. More than 1 million people use it for tasks outside traditional programming.

Finance teams, for example, have used the tools to accelerate month-end reporting and forecasting by:

• Pulling source data
• Reconciling figures
• Building presentations
• Reviewing outputs

The automation allows employees to spend more time analyzing results and advising leadership rather than preparing reports.

Security and Enterprise Controls

The rollout comes as enterprises increasingly experiment with AI agents that can operate across software systems rather than simply generate text. The challenge for companies will be determining how much autonomy to give these systems while maintaining oversight, security, and accuracy.

OpenAI, which is backed by Microsoft, said ChatGPT Work includes enterprise controls built on its existing ChatGPT Enterprise infrastructure, including:

• Permissions for tool access
• Allowed actions
• Monitoring through a Compliance API

The company also highlighted an "Auto-review" security feature that it said blocked all tested attempts by external red teams to extract protected information during evaluations.

Product Updates and Transition Plans

OpenAI is folding the Codex app into the updated ChatGPT desktop experience while renaming the previous desktop client ChatGPT Classic.

What's Next

• OpenAI plans to transition users away from its standalone Atlas browser and expand ChatGPT features through a Chrome sidebar extension.
• The company is also pursuing a trillion-dollar IPO, though new reporting suggests the listing may slip to 2027 as the company burns through cash at a record pace.
• According to a New York Times report, OpenAI is leaning toward holding off until next year.
• Advisers reportedly presented CEO Sam Altman with two options: wait until 2027 to reach the trillion-dollar mark, or settle for a smaller number and list in 2026. Altman reportedly called any reduction a "non-starter."

Photo: Shutterstock

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