What the heck is going on with the new ChatGPT subscription...
OpenAI, a for-profit company, has recently introduced a new subscription tier for ChatGPT, named ChatGPT Pro. This tier, priced at $200 a month or around R3 600, combines features from ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Enterprise tiers, providing users with unlimited access to the latest o1, o1-mini, and GOT-4o AI models.
Features of ChatGPT Pro
The highlight of ChatGPT Pro is the introduction of the o1 Pro Mode, which utilizes enhanced compute power to deliver superior answers to complex queries, particularly in math, science, and coding tasks. OpenAI claims that this mode outperforms other versions in benchmarks.
Despite the high price tag, ChatGPT Pro does not allow multiple users on the same account, as outlined in fair usage policies. Restrictions prohibit data extraction from the AI, sharing account credentials, or reselling access to third parties.
Additionally, access to the OpenAI API is not included in the subscription and must be purchased separately. The absence of an annual plan means users must pay the hefty monthly fee for continuous usage.
Limits on ChatGPT Plus
As the new tiers like ChatGPT Pro emerge, limitations on ChatGPT Plus have been tightened. What was once unlimited access now offers only "extended limits" and limited access to the latest models, with further restrictions expected with future tier releases.
Who is ChatGPT Pro for?
The question arises, who is the target audience for ChatGPT Pro? The inability to share accounts makes it less appealing for institutions or businesses. The steep monthly cost, without access to the API, raises concerns about the practical utility of the enhanced computational power for most users.
It seems that ChatGPT Pro may cater to a niche group of power users, willing to pay a premium for what OpenAI deems the best service. However, the practical applications for such advanced capabilities remain unclear to the broader audience.
Overall, ChatGPT Pro's introduction marks a significant shift in OpenAI's subscription offerings, with a focus on exclusivity and advanced features tailored to a select segment of users.
