News Summary

OpenAI has launched two updated versions of its flagship AI models, GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking, available in ChatGPT. These models are designed to be warmer, more conversational, and better at following instructions, addressing previous criticisms of being overly cheerful and sycophantic. The new models feature eight preset communication styles, including Professional, Friendly, and Quirky, allowing users to choose a style suited to their needs. Both models demonstrate improved performance on technical benchmarks like math and coding evaluations. GPT-5.1 Instant serves as ChatGPT’s faster default option for most tasks, while GPT-5.1 Thinking handles complex problem-solving. OpenAI plans a gradual rollout, starting with paid subscribers, and will later extend availability to free users.