Abstract: Large language models such as ChatGPT have recently gained widespread attention in society due to their high level of generality and intelligence. This technological advancement has sparked not only a technological revolution, but also a social revolution. Against this backdrop, exploring the evolution and characteristics of large language models based on the underlying technology of ChatGPT, as well as their potential opportunities and challenges for society, has become a crucial topic in contemporary times. We first review the technological development of large language models, then summarize the revolution into three stages and discuss their key technical features, respectively. Subsequently, from the perspective of the interaction between technology and society, we explore the social opportunities brought about by large language models: serving as a personal universal information assistant, turning into a new paradigm of scientific research, contributing to industrial infrastructure, and becoming a powerful tool for modernizing national governance capabilities. What’s more, we address potential challenges that arise from large language models. These include issues of information pollution, distribution of social power, ethical and legal concerns, and ideological security. Finally, we conclude with reflections and discussions on the future development of large language models and their relationship with societal progress.