OpenAI Reportedly Shifts Free and Go ChatGPT Tiers to Cheaper AI Model

OpenAI is reportedly reshaping how ChatGPT works for its free and low-cost Go subscription users. The company now sets its most affordable AI system, GPT-5.2 Instant, as the default model. Automatic upgrades to more advanced reasoning models for these users are no longer enabled.

This adjustment could be a cost-cutting strategy for OpenAI. Defaulting millions of free users to a cheaper model is likely to trim compute spending. Many people may not notice the model change or may avoid adjusting settings.

ChatGPT OpenAI GPT-5.2 Instant update

Recent update notes, first noticed by Wired, explain how prompts from free and Go accounts now route straight to GPT-5.2 Instant. Earlier, ChatGPT sometimes shifted queries in the background to more capable reasoning systems. That automatic switching has been removed for these lower-priced tiers.

OpenAI has said the aim is to give users more control over their experience. People can still pick the more advanced Thinking model from the tools menu while writing a message. However, they must select it manually each time. GPT-5.2 Instant is described as a general-purpose model that handles everyday tasks and learning, while the Thinking model suits demanding problems needing deeper reasoning and refinement.

Users on free and Go plans therefore keep access to the advanced reasoning option, but only when they actively choose it. The shift balances user choice with OpenAI’s costs, changing how many people in these tiers interact with ChatGPT and its different model types. It's also worth noting that OpenAI is yet to comment on this.

Via