Spotted by noted AI researcher Tibor Blaho, Salute is an upcoming suite of tools integrated directly into the ChatGPT web app. It allows users to do more than just “chat”; it enables them to execute complex, multi-step workflows with real-time tracking.
Key Capabilities of the Salute Feature
According to the leaks, the “Salute” update introduces several structural changes to how you interact with AI:
- Task Creation with File Uploads: Users can now create specific “Tasks” within a chat. These tasks can be grounded in uploaded documents (PDFs, spreadsheets, or code files), which ChatGPT will reference throughout the task’s lifecycle.
- Progress Tracking: Unlike standard chats that can become disorganized, Salute provides a dedicated UI element to keep track of progress on long-running projects, such as writing a report or debugging a software module.
- “Preferred Model” Logic: The update includes a new flag that allows ChatGPT to automatically select a model optimized for your specific task—such as choosing a specialized model for local business searches, maps, or technical coding.
- Inline Editable Blocks: To support this project-based workflow, OpenAI is adding inline editable code and math blocks. This allows you to tweak AI-generated output directly in the chat interface rather than copying and pasting to an external editor.
Why “Salute” Matters: The Competitive Landscape
The introduction of Salute is widely seen as OpenAI’s response to the “Agentic AI” trend of 2026.
| Feature | ChatGPT (Legacy) | ChatGPT (Salute Update) |
| Interaction | Linear Conversation | Task-Based Projects |
| File Handling | Context for current prompt | Persistent Task Reference |
| Editing | Regenerate or Copy | Inline Rich-Text Editing |
| Model Choice | Manual Selection | Task-Specific Auto-Selection |
Other Updates in the “Salute” Build
The leaked build also references several backend improvements aimed at power users and developers:
- Secure Tunnels for MCP: A new secure tunnel for Managed Cloud Platform (MCP) servers, allowing developers to connect internal servers to OpenAI via outbound-only HTTPS, bypassing complex firewall changes.
- Business Map Widgets: Enhanced integration for local business queries, presenting results in interactive map widgets directly within the chat.
Conclusion: The “Super-Assistant” Pivot
The “Salute” feature aligns with recent statements from OpenAI leadership that 2026 would be the year ChatGPT evolves into a “personal super-assistant.” By integrating task management, file persistence, and specialized model routing, OpenAI is positioning ChatGPT to replace not just your search engine, but potentially your project management software as well.
