OpenAI has begun rolling out its latest update for ChatGPT, introducing the GPT-5.1 model to users worldwide. The release includes two new versions, GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking. These models are now available to paid users on Pro, Plus, Go, and Business plans, with access for free and logged-out users also scheduled to follow.
What’s New in GPT-5.1
GPT-5.1 Instant is designed to create more natural conversations. OpenAI has focused on making the model sound warmer and more responsive, with improved instruction-following and a tone that feels closer to human interaction. This change comes after earlier criticism that ChatGPT’s responses felt cold or overly robotic, particularly after the release of GPT-4o.GPT-5.1 Thinking introduces a different approach. It adjusts its reasoning time based on the difficulty of the question, giving faster responses to simple requests and taking longer for more complex tasks. It aims to provide clearer explanations and reduce unnecessary technical language.
This update also brings new personality presets that allow users to shape ChatGPT’s tone. The available choices include Default, Professional, Friendly, Efficient, Candid, Quirky, Nerdy, and Cynical. These settings are designed to help users tailor the AI’s communication style to their needs.
ChatGPT’s Auto mode will continue to choose between the Instant and Thinking models depending on the type of query. OpenAI also confirmed that GPT-5 Pro will be upgraded to GPT-5.1 Pro soon. For now, paid subscribers can still access the older GPT-5 Instant and Thinking models in the legacy section for the next three months.
ChatGPT also improves how it handles custom instructions, enabling it to follow individual preferences more accurately across conversations. These personalization options will be available to both paid and free users.
