(Image source from: Bloomberg)

Reports indicate that OpenAI is developing a social media platform. The San Francisco-based AI company aims to incorporate artificial intelligence features into this social application, though specific details regarding this integration remain unclear. This new platform is expected to rival major players such as Elon Musk's X, previously known as Twitter, and the social networks under Mark Zuckerberg's Meta. Notably, both X and Meta have recently introduced AI functionalities on their platforms. This news comes shortly after OpenAI launched its GPT-4.1 series of AI models. According to The Verge, the company is in the process of creating a social network reminiscent of X. Citing various unnamed sources, the publication noted that an internal prototype of this platform has already been developed, focusing on the image-generation capabilities powered by ChatGPT's GPT-4o. The social element is envisioned to include a public feed for showcasing the generated images.

OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has apparently solicited feedback on this prototype from individuals outside the company. However, it remains unconfirmed whether the intention is to design a standalone application or to incorporate this social experience into ChatGPT. It’s important to mention that OpenAI's video generation service, Sora, also features a feed but lacks a traditional social component, as it does not display the creators of the images and videos. From the available information, it seems that OpenAI aims to create an AI-driven platform enhanced with social features, rather than a conventional social media experience embedded with AI elements, as seen in platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram.

OpenAI’s foray into social media is likely to rekindle its competition with X and Meta. Musk, who owns X, has been openly critical of Altman and the profit-driven model of the AI firm. He has previously taken legal action against OpenAI and has even expressed interest in purchasing the company. In response to this buyout proposal, Altman humorously remarked in a post, “no thank you,” while adding that “we will buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if you want.” Earlier in February, there were rumors that Meta intends to launch a dedicated Meta AI app to contend with ChatGPT. In light of this, OpenAI's CEO commented, “ok fine maybe we’ll do a social app.”