OpenAI today upgraded GPT-5 to GPT-5.1 , the next generation of the artificial intelligence model that powers ChatGPT.
There are two versions of GPT-5.1: Instant and Thinking. According to OpenAI, Instant is warmer, smarter, and better at following instructions, while GPT-5.1 Thinking is easier to understand, faster at simple tasks, and more persistent at complex tasks.
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OpenAI says users can expect a more enjoyable communication experience, with options to more easily customize ChatGPT’s tone. There are new presets for tone, including Professional, Sincere, and Quirky. The new presets join the existing Default, Nerdy, Cynic, Friendly (formerly Listener), and Efficient (formerly Robot). ChatGPT can also proactively update preferences during conversationswhen you request a specific tone or style, and there are fine-tuning options to adjust how concise, warm, or easy-to-read responses are, as well as how often it uses emojis.
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By default, GPT-5.1 Instant is warmer and more playful, and more likely to stick to the parameters you set. GPT-5.1 Thinking is able to tailor thinking time more precisely to the question, and the answers are clearer with less vague terms. It is also warmer and more compassionate than before.
GPT-5.1: Choosing an appropriate model
Questions will continue to be routed to the most appropriate model using GPT-5.1 Auto. GPT 5.1 Instant and Thinking are rolling out to users starting yesterday, with Pro, Plus, Go, and Business users getting access first. Free users and non-members will follow. Enterprise and Edu users will get a seven-day early access, after which GPT-5.1 will become the default model.
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OpenAI plans to release GPT-5.1 gradually to keep performance stable, so not all users will see it immediately. GPT-5 will remain available in the legacy models drop-down menu for the next three months (for paid subscribers).
