Hey there,

Whenever a new AI model is released, we usually only talk about how powerful or smart it is. For many AI users, intelligence is just part of a much larger picture that involves things like communication style and usability. OpenAI has addressed these concerns with their latest changes to the GPT-5 series. Today we’ll explore OpenAI’s new GPT-5.1 models that expand on GPT-5’s already impressive abilities. 

The New GPT-5.1 models

This release includes two new versions of the GPT-5.1 model. One focused on speed, style, and communication while the other focuses on advanced reasoning and completing complex tasks.

• GPT-5.1 Instant: OpenAI has made this model more human by making it “warmer by default and more conversational”. In other words, interacting with the model has become more enjoyable. GPT-5.1 is not only friendlier, it's also better at following instructions. OpenAI has also added a new adaptive reasoning feature that makes the model more accurate and thorough. 

• GPT-5.1 Thinking: This model has also received improvements to its reasoning capabilities meaning the model is more efficient and easier to communicate with. Its thinking time has been adjusted to better reflect the complexity of a prompt. Now easy questions will get less reasoning time while complex queries get even more.  

Making Your ChatGPT Unique

OpenAI is also expanding on the customization options for ChatGPT. Eight unique personalities have been added or updated to change how you interact with ChatGPT. Each option offers a tailored experience with a unique tone and style. Professional, Candid, and Quirky are three of the new choices while the others are updated versions of existing styles. These changes can be accessed through the Personalization menu in your settings. 

How to Access GPT-5.1

GPT 5.1 Instant and Thinking are already available for all users (Free, Pro, Plus). They can be accessed within ChatGPT for users and through the API for developers. 

My Thoughts:

It's great to see OpenAI making changes based on user feedback. Like many of you, I’ve had the all too familiar experience of models failing to follow instructions or giving responses that are 90% fluff. This update directly addresses that. The new models create a noticeably more accurate and responsive experience. This was a necessary move. In the competitive AI ecosystem where companies are constantly improving their products, updates like this help keep OpenAI at the top. More than anything, it's a reminder that the future of AI isn’t just a race to the highest benchmark scores; it's about building the best product.

Like with all model releases, the best way to judge a model is to experience it yourself. I highly recommend you head to ChatGPT to check out GPT-5.1.