A major update has rolled out for the official ChatGPT iPhone app, expanding access to users in more than 40 countries. This shift broadens who can use the service beyond its initial territory and marks a significant step in making AI chat assistance more widely available across North America and beyond. The update is being highlighted by prominent tech outlets, underscoring how the platform is now reachable from a larger portion of the global market, including Canada and the United States.
Previously, the ChatGPT client for iOS appeared on the App Store, but it started with a limited footprint, initially serving users only in the United States. With the latest release, the app has become accessible to residents in many other countries, providing a smoother onboarding experience and aligning with the growing demand for AI-powered assistance in daily tasks, professional work, and educational use. The expansion signals a concerted effort to normalize access to AI chat services in diverse regions, including North America, Europe, and parts of the Global South.
The list of supported regions has grown substantially. Users in Albania, Algeria, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Estonia, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Kuwait, Lebanon, Lithuania, Mauritania, Republic of Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Namibia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Peru, Poland, Qatar, Slovenia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom can now download and use the official ChatGPT app. Notably, there was no confirmation about access from Russia in the initial notices.
Alongside the official app, there are several unofficial chatbot clients circulating in app stores. While some may mirror the functionality of ChatGPT, the majority carry risk and should be approached with caution. The official app remains the safest and most reliable option for users who want to rely on up-to-date features, data handling practices, and consistent performance. Consumers are advised to verify app legitimacy and review permissions carefully before granting access to any AI tool.
The new ChatGPT app is offered at no cost, with the option to subscribe to Plus for 20 USD per month. The Plus plan provides benefits such as priority access to new features and enhanced server availability during peak usage periods, which translates into faster responses and more reliable service during busy times. For many users in Canada and the United States, the pricing structure makes it straightforward to decide whether the added benefits outweigh the base offering, especially for work or study where uptime matters.
Historical context notes that coverage and accessibility are part of a broader trend toward integrating AI assistants into everyday digital life. In relevant discussions, the focus remains on practical use cases—drafting emails, brainstorming ideas, researching topics, and getting quick explanations for complex subjects. The expansion of availability across many regions aligns with user expectations for seamless cross-border access and consistent experiences, even when regional differences in language and regulatory environments exist.