OpenAI has introduced a new ChatGPT feature that allows users to lock sensitive conversations behind a PIN. The company says the aim is to keep personal chats private from anyone else using the same phone or device.

The feature, called Locked Chats, removes selected conversations from the regular chat history, pinned chats and in-app search results. Locked chats can be opened with a four-digit PIN, and biometric options such as Face ID are supported on iPhone and Android. Locked conversations are gathered in a dedicated Locked chats section within the Projects menu.

To lock an existing chat, users open the options menu next to it, select Lock chat and confirm, then create or enter an account PIN. OpenAI cautions that a locked chat may remain visible for a while in open tabs or on other devices until chat lists refresh. Its content may also stay on screen in the current web tab. The company advises users to refresh their apps and check other devices before sharing a screen or handing over a device.

OpenAI stresses that locking a chat does not provide end-to-end encryption and does not exempt the company from its legal obligations regarding data. The feature also does not automatically change model-training settings or data-retention policies. Resetting the PIN permanently deletes all locked chats and any files uploaded to them, and OpenAI support cannot recover the deleted content.

The rollout is gradual and may take several days to reach all accounts. It will cover free users as well as Go, Plus and Pro subscribers. The feature works with voice mode on iPhone and Android, but Codex conversations cannot be locked in the same way.