ChatGPT Mac app unexpectedly returns to the start screen during an active session

What issue are you seeing?

The ChatGPT Mac desktop app repeatedly appears to partially reset while I am actively using a chat or Work session. The active session suddenly disappears and the app returns to the initial "Where should we begin?" screen. The application itself does not necessarily close.

This has happened multiple times. It interrupts active work and requires me to locate and reopen the conversation or Work session.

What steps can reproduce the bug?

1. Open the ChatGPT desktop app on macOS.
2. Open an existing chat or Work session.
3. Continue working normally in that session.
4. At seemingly random times, the active session disappears.
5. The app displays the "Where should we begin?" start screen.
6. Reopen the conversation or Work session to continue working.

Frequency: Recurring, but no reliable trigger has been identified.

What is the expected behavior?

The currently open chat or Work session should remain displayed unless I intentionally navigate away from it.

Additional information

Platform: macOS on Apple Silicon.

Impact: The unexpected reset removes me from active work, disrupts continuity, and forces me to find and reopen the session. It behaves like a partial interface crash or reset, even though the entire application may remain open.

Start by reproducing the reset on macOS Apple Silicon while working in an existing chat or Work session. Trace the desktop session navigation or state-reset path involved when the app returns to the “Where should we begin?” screen; done means the active session remains displayed during continued use and can be verified with a regression test.