OpenAI is reportedly developing a social media platform akin to Elon Musk's X, according to multiple sources. The project, still in its early stages, features an internal prototype that integrates ChatGPT's image generation capabilities with a social feed. OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has been soliciting feedback from outsiders about this initiative, which could potentially escalate tensions with Musk, a co-founder of OpenAI who left the organization in 2018.
On April 15, 2025, The Verge first reported on OpenAI's plans to create a social network, emphasizing that the project is still nascent. It remains unclear whether the social platform will be launched as a standalone application or integrated into the existing ChatGPT app, which recently became the most downloaded app globally.
According to a source familiar with the plans, the motivation behind the social network stems from the overwhelming popularity of OpenAI's latest image-generation tool, which has led to a surge in server demand. This tool, debuted in March 2025, allows users to create a wide range of images, from diagrams and logos to custom artwork and professional headshots. Altman himself noted on X that the feature has been so successful that "our GPUs are melting," prompting the company to temporarily limit its usage while they work on efficiency improvements.
OpenAI's potential entry into the social media landscape could position the company against well-established platforms like X and Meta's Instagram. This competition is particularly relevant given Musk's recent acquisition of X and his ongoing legal battles with OpenAI. Musk has sued the company, alleging that it has strayed from its original mission of developing AI for the benefit of humanity and into a profit-driven model. OpenAI has countersued, accusing Musk of harassment and attempting to derail its transition to a for-profit entity.
In February 2025, Musk attempted to gain control of OpenAI by leading a consortium of investors that offered $97.4 billion for the company. Altman and OpenAI promptly rejected the offer, with Altman humorously suggesting they would consider buying Twitter instead for $9.74 billion. The feud has intensified, with a jury trial set to begin next year to resolve the ongoing legal disputes between Musk and OpenAI.
As the rivalry between Altman and Musk continues, the introduction of a social network could also put OpenAI in direct competition with Meta. The latter is reportedly working on a standalone AI assistant that may include a social feed, further complicating the landscape for generative AI companies. In response to media reports about Meta's plans, Altman quipped on X, "ok fine maybe we’ll do a social app," indicating that OpenAI is not shying away from the challenge.
Moreover, launching a social network would provide OpenAI with unique real-time data to train its AI models, a critical advantage that both X and Meta already leverage. This capability could enhance the effectiveness of OpenAI's existing products and services, as the company seeks to maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
OpenAI's ambitions do not stop at social media. During a recent technology symposium, company finance chief Sarah Friar announced that OpenAI is also developing an AI agent capable of performing the work of software engineers. This agent would not only assist in software development but could potentially take on tasks that engineers typically find tedious, such as quality assurance testing and documentation.
The development of a social media platform by OpenAI is indicative of the company's broader strategy to expand its offerings and reach in the tech industry. As the demand for generative AI solutions continues to grow, OpenAI is exploring new avenues to capitalize on its technological advancements.
However, the success of this social network project remains uncertain. While the existence of a prototype suggests that OpenAI is serious about this venture, it is still in the early stages, and there are numerous challenges ahead. The landscape of social media is complex, and entering this space will require careful navigation of existing rivalries and market dynamics.
As OpenAI forges ahead, the tech community watches closely to see how these developments unfold. With Altman at the helm and the company’s innovative spirit, it’s clear that OpenAI is not just resting on its laurels but is actively seeking to shape the future of AI and social interaction.
