OpenAI rolls out ChatGPT update with GPT 5.1 — what's new for the users?

On November 13, OpenAI announced the launch of its latest GPT-5.1 models for ChatGPT, featuring two innovative variants: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking. According to the company, these updates enhance the user experience by making interactions not only smarter but also more enjoyable. The new models allow users to fine-tune their ChatGPT experience, enabling them to adjust the AI's tone and style during conversations. One of the standout features of GPT-5.1 Instant is its default 'warmer' tone, which aims to create a more conversational atmosphere. Early testing has shown that this model surprises users with its playful nature while maintaining clarity and usefulness. OpenAI emphasized that GPT-5.1 Instant has been optimized for responsiveness, leading to smoother conversational flows. This model is also capable of determining when to take a moment to 'think' before answering more complex questions, striving to balance accuracy with speed. In contrast, GPT-5.1 Thinking is tailored for deeper reasoning tasks. This version is designed to allocate thinking time based on the complexity of the question, allowing for quick responses to simpler prompts while dedicating more time to intricate challenges. It aims to deliver clearer answers with reduced jargon, making it particularly suitable for professional settings where technical explanations are needed. The rollout of GPT-5.1 Instant and Thinking began on the same day, starting with paid users (Pro, Plus, Go, Business), while free and logged-out users will gain access over the following days. Enterprise and Edu plan subscribers will receive a week of early access before the models become the standard. Additionally, OpenAI is set to upgrade the GPT-5 Pro version to GPT-5.1 Pro soon. The latest updates also introduce various customizable tone and style options for users. The available styles include Default, Friendly, Efficient, Professional, Candid, Quirky, Cynical, and Nerdy. OpenAI is experimenting with further personalization options that will allow users to adjust the chatbot's characteristics, including response conciseness, warmth, and emoji usage. These features are expected to be tested by a select group of users shortly, alongside the introduction of the updated tone and style presets.