ChatGPT-maker OpenAI is developing its own social media platform, according to sources familiar with internal discussions reported by The Verge. 

While still in the early prototyping stages, the experimental project reportedly features a social feed integrated with ChatGPT's image generation capabilities—potentially positioning OpenAI against rivals like Elon Musk's X and Meta.

The move, if realized, would mark OpenAI's most ambitious expansion beyond AI chatbots. As per The Verge, CEO Sam Altman has reportedly sought external feedback on the concept, though key decisions remain unresolved—including whether to launch it as a standalone app or embed it within ChatGPT.

Industry observers note the strategic value, states the report: social platforms generate the real-time user data that fuels AI training—a resource X and Meta already control. Musk merged X with his xAI startup to feed Grok AI, while Meta leverages its vast social media content for Llama models. OpenAI's prototype allegedly aims to help users "share better content" through AI assistance, potentially avoiding the viral misinformation pitfalls competitors face.  

The development risks escalating Altman's feud with Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 before leaving in 2018. Tensions flared this year when Musk made—and Altman swiftly rejected—a $97.4 billion acquisition offer, followed by duelling lawsuits over OpenAI's profit model. An OpenAI social network could also clash with Meta's rumoured standalone AI service, prompting Altman's February quip on X: "ok fine maybe we'll do a social app." 

Yet significant hurdles remain. The project's unconfirmed status reflects OpenAI's balancing act between ambitious growth and core AI development. Whether OpenAI can translate that envy into a viable social platform, while navigating legal battles and market saturation, remains an open question. Nonetheless, OpenAI has not officially confirmed these developments.