OpenAI GPT-5.1 Officially Released - A Detailed Look at the Gentler, Smarter Upgrade
After the release of OpenAI GPT-5, many users said they wanted to go back to GPT-4o because it felt more human and warm. Now OpenAI has officially launched the GPT-5.1 series of models, which respond in a gentler, smarter tone, follow user instructions better, and fully resolve the earlier issues.
GPT-5.1 includes two main models:
- GPT-5.1 Instant: As the most popular general-purpose model, it is now warmer and smarter, responds better to your instructions, and suits everyday chat and quick queries.
- GPT-5.1 Thinking: A model focused on advanced reasoning that responds faster on simple tasks and delivers greater persistence and depth of understanding on complex tasks.
Currently, GPT-5.1 Pro is not yet available, but it's expected to roll out to some regions soon. Meanwhile, GPT-5 and GPT-4o have been moved to the legacy models category, and users can select these historical versions in settings to ensure compatibility.
Looking back at the initial launch of GPT-5 in August 2025, while performance improved across the board, the response style became relatively cold and less human, prompting users worldwide to call for the return of classic models like GPT-4o and o3. In the end, OpenAI introduced the "legacy models" option, letting users freely switch to historical versions.
# GPT-5 vs GPT-5.1 response comparison: more compliant with instructions, more human
The original GPT-5 tended to ignore instructions when users asked for concise replies, outputting verbose content. GPT-5.1 Instant, by contrast, strictly follows instructions, responds more concisely with a warm, human touch, improving the user interaction experience.
In addition, ChatGPT settings now include a new "Personalization" feature: click avatar -> Settings -> Personalization, where users can adjust the response style and tone to their preferences for customized chat.
# Which users get early access to GPT-5.1? Paid subscribers upgrade first
Starting November 12, 2025, OpenAI first pushed GPT-5.1 to paid users (Pro, Plus, Go, Business), then expanded to free and registered users. Currently, Business membership has an official discount and can be activated for just a double-digit fee — worth trying.
❝ Website for upgrading ChatGPT Plus and Business in mainland China: https://gptplus.org.cn (opens new window)
It's worth noting that GPT-5 will remain available in the legacy model dropdown for ChatGPT paid subscribers for three months, after which these older models may be removed. We recommend users try the new GPT-5.1 in time for a smarter, gentler AI interaction.