OpenAI clarifies ChatGPT Work cloud and desktop data separation at launch
OpenAI states cloud-based Work conversations will not appear in the desktop app at launch, and desktop Work threads remain local to the device.
2 sources · cross-referenced
- OpenAI's documentation states cloud Work conversations are not visible in the desktop app at launch.
- Desktop Work threads and local files are stored only on the user's computer.
- Work on web and mobile operates in the cloud, while the desktop app can access local files with permission.
OpenAI’s official documentation, quoted by Simon Willison, specifies that at launch, conversations initiated in the cloud-based ChatGPT Work will not be visible within the desktop application. This separation is intended to delineate where data resides and how it is accessed. The desktop app’s Work threads and local files are explicitly stated to remain on the user’s computer, indicating a local-only storage model for these components. Additionally, OpenAI notes that Work functionality on web and mobile platforms operates entirely in the cloud, while the desktop app can interact with local files and applications with explicit user permission.
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