Custom GPTs are versions of ChatGPT set up for one purpose, with their own instructions, files and tools. OpenAI now plans to retire them in favour of Plugins.
In plain words
A GPT bundles a few things: instructions that set its behaviour and tone, uploaded files it can refer to, built-in tools like image generation or searching the web, and optional connections to outside services or APIs. You set one up in a builder inside ChatGPT, test it in a preview, and can share it with others. OpenAI now says it plans to retire custom GPTs. Personal accounts can no longer create new ones, existing ones still work until retirement, and it recommends moving workflows to Plugins.
A quick example
Imagine a teacher who sets up a GPT with instructions to explain maths step by step without giving away answers, plus the class syllabus as an uploaded file. Students chat with it like ChatGPT, but it stays on topic and uses the course material.
Where you'll meet it
- Reusable assistants for a single task inside ChatGPT.
- Sharing a tailored assistant within a team or workspace.
Related
Sources
- DocsGPTs in ChatGPT, OpenAI Help Center · read 29 Sept 2026
- DocsCreating and editing GPTs, OpenAI Help Center · read 29 Sept 2026
Checked by WhatIsAI against the sources above · 29 Sept 2026. Spotted an error? Report it.