OpenAI has officially released GPT-5.1, the latest version of its advanced language model, just three months after introducing GPT-5. The company says this new update delivers warmer, more natural conversations and sharper reasoning abilities, enhancing how users interact with ChatGPT.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced the launch on X (formerly Twitter), describing it as a “nice upgrade.” He highlighted key improvements, saying, “I particularly like the improvements in instruction following and the adaptive thinking. The intelligence and style improvements are good too.”
Two Variants: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking
The update introduces two distinct versions: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking.
- Instant is designed for quick, intelligent, and engaging conversations, focusing on warmth and human-like interaction.
- Thinking, on the other hand, is built for complex reasoning and deeper understanding, enabling the model to handle challenging tasks more effectively and respond with greater precision.
Enhanced Customization Options
One of the standout features of GPT-5.1 is its new customization tools. Users can now adjust how ChatGPT sounds and behaves through six preset personality modes: Default, Friendly, Efficient, Professional, Candid, and Quirky.
For users who want more control, OpenAI has added manual tuning options—allowing personalization of tone, warmth, and detail levels to match individual preferences.
Better Instruction Following and Adaptive Reasoning
GPT-5.1 brings major advancements in how it follows user instructions. The model now understands prompts more accurately and responds with clearer, more relevant answers.
According to OpenAI, for the first time, GPT-5.1 Instant uses adaptive reasoning, meaning it can decide when to “think” before replying to tough questions—offering faster yet more accurate results.
The Thinking version also produces simpler, jargon-free explanations, making it easier for users to understand complex topics without unnecessary technical terms.
Availability and Rollout
The rollout for GPT-5.1 Instant and Thinking begins November 13, initially available to paid users under plans like Pro, Plus, Go, and Business.
Free and logged-out users will receive access in the following days. Additionally, Enterprise and Education customers will have a seven-day early-access option, allowing them to test the new model before it becomes the default for all users.
OpenAI has also confirmed that GPT-5 Pro subscribers will soon be upgraded to GPT-5.1 Pro, ensuring a smoother transition to the company’s most advanced AI model yet.