OpenAI’s new shared usage limit pits ChatGPT against Codex

OpenAI is set to combine usage allowances for its conversational AI, ChatGPT, and agentic AI, Codex, starting in December. This plan aims to integrate the two products into a single experience, affecting Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers. Under the new system, ChatGPT conversations and Codex tasks will share a common pool of tokens, with more demanding tasks consuming a larger share of the allowance.

However, instant chat mode will remain unaffected. ChatGPT Work, an agentic tool launched in July, allows users to delegate tasks such as research, data analysis, and document creation. This new initiative is part of OpenAI's broader efforts to unify its AI products under one roof, expanding its collection of specialized tools, including ChatGPT for Excel and Google Sheets integration.

The decision to combine usage allowances has sparked concerns among subscribers, who argue that ChatGPT and Codex serve different purposes and should retain independent allowances. They have called for greater transparency regarding how usage will be calculated and requested a real-time usage dashboard before the change takes effect.

OpenAI has assured subscribers that they will be able to see their combined remaining allowance and reset times in ChatGPT's settings, but has not specified the level of detail.