GPT-5.1 Launches With 'Instant' and 'Thinking' Models

TL;DR

OpenAI announces GPT-5.1, enhancing ChatGPT and OpenAI APIs with improved intelligence and conversational abilities, offering two models for better reasoning and personalization, initially for paid users.

Key Points

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GPT-5.1 introduces two models, Instant and Thinking, which offer improved conversational abilities and reasoning.

The models feature adaptive reasoning capabilities, allowing them to adjust their response time based on the complexity of the question.

New features for customizing ChatGPT's tone and style are available, providing developers with the ability to tailor interactions to better fit user preferences.

Both GPT-5.1 Instant and Thinking is available through the API, allowing developers to leverage these advanced models in their own software solutions.

The update includes comprehensive safety evaluations, including sentiment analysis for mental health and emotional reliance.

The AI field is buzzing with the release of GPT-5.1, a significant update to the GPT-5 series that's turning heads with its fresh features. This latest iteration introduces two new models: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking. Let's explore what makes them tick. GPT-5.1 Instant is conceived to be more conversational and engaging, honing its ability to follow instructions with a touch of playfulness. One standout feature is its adaptive reasoning, which lets it pause and ponder before tackling tough questions. This is particularly handy for tasks like math and coding, where a little extra thought can go a long way.

On the flip side, GPT-5.1 Thinking is all about advanced reasoning and clarity. It smartly adjusts its response time based on the complexity of the question, delivering detailed answers for the tough ones and speeding things up for simpler queries. The aim here is to be more user-friendly, cutting through the jargon to make technical explanations more accessible. It's a model designed for those who need precision without the headache of deciphering complex language.

That's not all! The update also brings a new level of customization to ChatGPT's tone. Users can now adjust the AI's responses to suit more their style, with options like Default, Friendly, Efficient, Professional, Candid, and Quirky. Want to tweak specific traits like conciseness or warmth? You got it. You can even decide if you want emojis in the mix. These personalization features are all about making interactions feel more natural and aligned with user preferences.

Initially, GPT-5.1 is being rolled out to paid users, with plans to gradually open it up to free users. The models are also integrated into the API, broadening access to their capabilities. The overarching goal is to make AI interactions smarter and more intuitive, improving both capability and usability. Plus, updated safety measures now include evaluations for mental health and emotional reliance, ensuring these advanced models are used responsibly.

Key Numbers

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2 times faster

The speed of GPT-5.1 Thinking on the fastest tasks compared to previous models

2 times slower

The speed of GPT-5.1 Thinking on the slowest tasks compared to previous models

Stakeholder Relationships

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Organizations

Key entities and stakeholders, categorized for clarity: people, organizations, tools, events, regulatory bodies, and industries.

OpenAI AI Research Organization

Responsible for the research, development, and deployment of GPT-5.1.

Tools

Key entities and stakeholders, categorized for clarity: people, organizations, tools, events, regulatory bodies, and industries.

GPT-5.1 AI Model

The latest upgrade in the GPT series, enhancing ChatGPT's intelligence and conversational abilities.

GPT-5.1 Instant AI Model

A new model introduced with GPT-5.1, focusing on quick responses.

GPT-5.1 Thinking AI Model

A new model introduced with GPT-5.1, focusing on more thoughtful and detailed responses.

Regulatory

Key entities and stakeholders, categorized for clarity: people, organizations, tools, events, regulatory bodies, and industries.

Regulatory Bodies

Ensure that the deployment of AI technologies like GPT-5.1 complies with legal and ethical guidelines.

Timeline of Events

Timeline of key events and milestones.

Nov 12, 2025 GPT-5.1 release announced

The release of GPT-5.1 is announced, starting with a rollout to paid users.

Nov 12, 2025 GPT-5.1 Instant and Thinking rollout begins

GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking begin rolling out to paid users, with a gradual rollout planned for free and logged-out users.

Nov 12, 2025 New tone customization options introduced

New tone customization options for ChatGPT are introduced, with updates to existing presets and the addition of new ones like Professional, Candid, and Quirky.

Gradual rollout over the next days from Nov 12 GPT-5.1 gradual rollout

GPT-5.1 is planned to be rolled out to ensure stable performance.

Nov 13, 2025 API availability for GPT-5.1 Instant and Thinking

GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking are available via the API.

After initial rollout Seven-day early-access toggle for Enterprise and Edu plans

Three months from Nov 12, 2025 Availability of GPT-5 under legacy models

Three-month availability of GPT-5 (Instant and Thinking) under the legacy models dropdown for paid subscribers to allow comparison and adaptation.