For those using ChatGPT without a higher-tier subscription, brace yourself for some changes. Recently, OpenAI let it slip that free users and subscribers of ChatGPT Go, which is the budget option, will now be defaulted to the GPT-5.2 Instant model for their prompts. Gone are the days when your more complex queries could tap into something more powerful. This means less exploring and more streamlined responses.
An update on December 11 revealed that OpenAI is “removing automatic model switching” for users with free or Go accounts. Previously, if your question needed deeper thought, it could automatically redirect to the Thinking model for better insights. Now, defaulting to the GPT-5.2 Instant model lets free users still opt for the Thinking model manually, but it’s going to be a hassle every time they use it.
I reached out to OpenAI for more details, particularly about any other new limitations for free or Go users. Stay tuned for updates as they roll in.
Free users, as well as those who pay $5 (approximately €4.50) a month for ChatGPT Go, can still access the Thinking model, but they’ll have to switch it off each time they log in. OpenAI describes the Instant model as a “powerful workhorse for everyday tasks,” but the Thinking model is crafted to tackle those brain-bending challenges with flair.
This shift could be seen as a small win for users tired of being randomly steered to different models based on their questions. Remember when the launch of GPT-5 had users feeling like they were getting a less “engaged” version? It led to some serious backlash. Even Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, admitted, “We hate the model picker as much as you do.”
However, this change also looks like a way for OpenAI to save costs. They likely assume many users won’t bother checking which model they’re on and will be fine with the default option, ultimately helping the company reduce expenses.
That said, cutting costs comes with risks for users. OpenAI previously made sure sensitive queries went to the Thinking model for better responses, especially when users showed distress. With this update, they claim the GPT-5.2 Instant model is now capable enough for such situations. Fingers crossed on that one.
What is the difference between GPT-5.2 Instant and the Thinking model?
The GPT-5.2 Instant is optimized for everyday tasks, whereas the Thinking model is designed to tackle more complex challenges efficiently.
Will free users be impacted by these changes significantly?
Yes, now free users will have their queries default to the Instant model, leading to potentially less robust responses unless they manually switch to the Thinking model.
How often will users need to switch models?
Each time a user logs in with a free or Go account, they will have to manually select the Thinking model if they require it for more intricate queries.
What prompted OpenAI to make this change?
While it can be framed as a way to streamline user experience, it’s largely seen as a cost-saving strategy for OpenAI amid concerns surrounding user satisfaction.
Can OpenAI guarantee quality with the GPT-5.2 Instant model?
OpenAI has stated that the Instant model is now capable of handling sensitive topics, but its effectiveness compared to the Thinking model remains to be seen.
These changes signal a new era for OpenAI’s ChatGPT free users. As this narrative unfolds, will users welcome the simplicity, or will they feel restricted? Your thoughts on the update could shape future discussions, so drop a comment below with your experiences and insights!