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OpenAI reveals original name for ChatGPT

OpenAI's ChatGPT lead shares insights on the name change from Chat with GPT-3.5 to ChatGPT.

July 4, 2025 at 09:49 AM
blur OpenAI almost named ChatGPT something far less appealing

OpenAI's ChatGPT lead Nick Turley shared insights about the naming decision for ChatGPT.

OpenAI chose a simpler name for ChatGPT

OpenAI's ChatGPT lead Nick Turley revealed that the company nearly released the AI chatbot under a less catchy name. Before its launch in November 2022, the team considered naming the tool Chat with GPT-3.5. After a late-night discussion, they opted for the simpler name ChatGPT. Turley explained that they thought the original name would be hard to pronounce. This decision came as ChatGPT became increasingly popular, with 600 million monthly active users recorded in March 2023. A recent launch of new features, including an image generator, significantly boosted user engagement. It has been noted that ChatGPT stands significantly apart in usage compared to similar tools, such as Microsoft Copilot.

Key Takeaways

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OpenAI almost named ChatGPT Chat with GPT-3.5 but switched to a simpler name.
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The decision to simplify the name was made just before launch in November 2022.
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ChatGPT is associated with a significant user base of over 600 million monthly users in March.
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New features have increased ChatGPT's popularity over competitors, such as Microsoft Copilot.

"It was going to be Chat with GPT-3.5, and we had a late-night decision to simplify."

Nick Turley explains the late-night decision that led to the name ChatGPT.

"We realized that that would be hard to pronounce and came up with a great name instead."

Turley reflects on the reasons for choosing a simpler name for ChatGPT.

Choosing a straightforward name like ChatGPT undoubtedly contributed to its widespread recognition and success. This small but crucial decision underscores the importance of branding in technology, especially when competing in a crowded market. As the demand for AI tools grows, establishing user-friendly names may prove vital for capturing market share. History shows that user perception often hinges on simplicity, making naming strategies a key aspect of product development.

Highlights

  • A simpler name helped ChatGPT dominate the AI landscape.
  • Without a catchy name, ChatGPT's story could have been different.
  • Branding in tech is critical for a product's success.
  • ChatGPT's surge in users shows the power of simplicity.

Naming decision reflects competitive risks in AI market

Choosing an effective name is crucial in the tech industry, where branding can significantly impact success. The change in ChatGPT’s name may suggest a broader strategy related to user engagement and market perception.

This choice highlights how branding can shape the success of technology products.

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