I tried ChatGPT's new o1-preview model, but you shouldn't switch ...
Competition in the AI model space has been heating up, with Google's Gemini and Anthropic's Claude AI models challenging OpenAI's position. The latest addition to OpenAI's lineup, the o1-preview model, promises complex reasoning and human-like thought emulation.
The Rise of o1 Series
OpenAI's o1-preview and o1-mini are the newest models within ChatGPT, tailored for complex problem-solving tasks. Unlike its predecessors, the o1 series focuses on thoughtful responses rather than quick answers, resembling human cognition.
The o1 model series was first discussed in July, revealing OpenAI's mission to achieve artificial general intelligence (AGI). While o1-preview marks a significant improvement from earlier models, it still falls short of true AGI, as OpenAI's CEO acknowledged.
The Testing Phase
I conducted several tests to gauge the performance of o1-preview against GPT-4o. In a straightforward math riddle, o1-preview outshone its predecessor by correctly solving the problem after a brief thinking pause. On the other hand, GPT-4o mini struggled with the same task.
When presented with a more complex investment scenario, o1-preview exhibited a thorough thought process, offering a detailed analysis of the situation. In comparison, GPT-4o resorted to generating Python code for the calculation, highlighting the differences in complexity between the models.
Considering factors like property appreciation and maintenance costs, the o1-preview model impressed with its methodical approach and accurate conclusions.
Cost and Accessibility
Despite its advanced capabilities, the o1 model series demands substantial computational resources. OpenAI has restricted access to o1-preview behind a paywall, requiring a ChatGPT Plus subscription for utilization. The model's high cost and message limits may deter casual users from switching.
Looking Ahead
Although ChatGPT's o1-preview model showcases impressive reasoning abilities, it may not be a necessary upgrade for most users. Alternative platforms like Perplexity's Pro Search offer similar capabilities at a lower cost, making them viable options for users seeking multi-step reasoning solutions.
Ultimately, while the o1-preview model represents a leap forward in AI technology, its current restrictions and specialized use cases suggest that sticking with existing models like GPT-4o may be more beneficial for the majority of users.
