OpenAI has announced GPT-5.1, the latest upgrade to its flagship AI model, bringing major improvements in reasoning, performance, and personality customization.
The launch follows the mixed reception of GPT-5, which many users felt offered only incremental improvements. GPT-5.1 aims to change that perception with smarter, more adaptive responses and new controls that let users fine-tune how ChatGPT sounds and behaves.
The update introduces two new variants: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking, all designed to meet different AI user needs.
Instant mode focuses on delivering fast, conversational replies that feel more natural and engaging, while thinking mode slows down to provide deeper, multi-step reasoning for complex questions, analysis, and creative tasks.
According to OpenAI, both models are not only faster and more intelligent but also more emotionally aware and context-sensitive than before.
“We heard clearly from users that great AI should not only be smart but also enjoyable to talk to,” the company said. “GPT-5.1 improves meaningfully on both intelligence and communication style.”
OpenAI has also revamped how users can customize ChatGPT’s tone and personality, a feature that many have been requesting for months.
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You can now choose from six presets: Default, Friendly, Efficient, Professional, Candid, and Quirky. You can also manually adjust how concise, humorous, or formal the assistant sounds.
CEO Sam Altman noted that this change makes ChatGPT feel more personal and aligned with individual preferences, saying users can “pick a preset or tune it yourself.”
Microsoft Turns to Rivals
Interestingly, the launch comes as Microsoft, OpenAI’s strategic AI partner, explores other options following GPT-5’s lackluster reception.
Reports indicate that Anthropic’s AI models now power several Microsoft tools, including Copilot Researcher, GitHub Copilot, Copilot Studio, and a new Office Agent that can generate Word and PowerPoint documents directly through chat.
GPT-5.1’s debut also follows the recent launch of ChatGPT Atlas, OpenAI’s new AI-powered web browser. Atlas introduces an “Agent Mode” that allows ChatGPT to perform actions online, such as navigating websites or executing commands, much like a human assistant.
The browser is currently available to ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscribers and can integrate with GPT-5.1.
