OpenAI rolls out GPT-5.1 with more human-like upgraded conversational tools for ChatGPT users

OpenAI has introduced GPT-5.1 with smarter conversations, faster responses, and expanded customisation options for ChatGPT users.

OpenAI has released GPT-5.1, the latest version of its language model that aims to improve ChatGPT’s performance and interaction quality. The update includes two versions: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking, both designed to handle user queries more effectively.

OpenAI has introduced GPT-5.1, an upgraded ChatGPT model designed to improve conversations. (AFP)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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According to OpenAI, GPT-5.1 Instant offers smoother and more accurate responses while following user instructions more closely. On the other hand, GPT-5.1 Thinking is built to perform faster on simple tasks and maintain consistency during longer or complex interactions. ChatGPT will automatically select the model best suited to respond to each query. Both versions are expected to roll out to users over the coming week. The earlier GPT-5 models will remain accessible for three months under the legacy model menu before being phased out.

ChatGPT’s Customisation Features

As part of this update, OpenAI has expanded ChatGPT’s personality presets. Users can now choose from eight conversational styles - Default, Professional, Friendly, Candid, Quirky, Efficient, Nerdy, and Cynical. These presets allow users to adjust the model’s tone based on context and purpose. The company has also begun testing a new feature that enables direct fine-tuning of ChatGPT’s communication style through settings, which will gradually become available to select users.

OpenAI’s Applications CEO, Fidji Simo, stated in a Substack post that with over 800 million ChatGPT users, customisation has become essential. She emphasised that a single conversational tone can no longer meet the diverse needs of the growing user base.

Users’ Feedback and Competition

The GPT-5 update, launched in August, received mixed reactions, with some users expressing disappointment over the limited improvements compared to earlier models. Following user feedback, OpenAI restored GPT-4o as an available option shortly after GPT-5’s launch.

Meanwhile, OpenAI’s strategic partner Microsoft has reportedly explored alternatives from Anthropic, which are integrating those models into tools like Copilot Researcher, GitHub Copilot, Copilot Studio, and a new Office Agent for Word and PowerPoint automation.

Lastly, the release of GPT-5.1 follows OpenAI’s recent launch of ChatGPT Atlas, an AI-powered web browser with an “agent mode.” This feature is currently only available to ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscribers, and it offers users the ability to perform browser tasks via direct AI actions. The company said GPT-5.1’s rollout marks another step toward improving user experience and flexibility across its growing AI ecosystem.