OpenAI Launches GPT-5.1: ChatGPT Now Even Friendlier!

Following criticism of GPT-5 concerning both the quality of its responses and its somewhat impersonal tone, OpenAI launched version 5.1 on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. This version is now the default setting for all ChatGPT users. Its rollout is taking place globally.

A ChatGPT that is “warmer, smarter, and more efficient”

In response to “user feedback”, which indicated a desire for an AI that is not only intelligent but also pleasant to interact with, the Californian company rolled out GPT-5.1, an enhanced version of its flagship model. It is available in two variants:

• GPT-5.1 Instant: the default model for all users, described as “warmer, smarter, and more efficient”,

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• GPT-5.1 Thinking: the advanced reasoning model, “faster on simple tasks and more persistent on complex tasks”.

Importantly, OpenAI has focused on making its model more amiable with users, many of whom had complained about the coldness of GPT-5, with some even missing the companionship it provided daily. Thus, GPT-5.1 comes with a range of customizable tones. By default, it “often surprises with its playful side while remaining useful,” according to OpenAI. However, users can alter its “personality” by choosing from new “base tones,” now totaling seven:

• Professional: “courteous and precise”,
• Warm: “natural and engaging”,
• Spontaneous: “candid and caring”,
• Quirky: “playful and imaginative”,
• Efficient: “concise and clear”,
• Geeky: “curious and enthusiastic”,
• Cynical: “critical and sarcastic”.

These tones can be accessed in the customization settings on the web version or through the apps.

Is GPT-5.1 Thinking More Effective?

Regarding its advanced reasoning model, OpenAI promises improvements to make it “more effective and easier to use on a daily basis”. The model is designed to better adjust its thinking time based on the complexity of the query. “It dedicates more time to complex problems and responds quicker to simpler inquiries,” states OpenAI. Despite the elaborate description, it seems that the changes might not be significantly noticeable to the end-user.

In terms of availability, OpenAI explains that GPT-5.1 Instant and Thinking are “being rolled out starting today”, initially to paying users, followed by free and non-logged-in accounts. Furthermore, the company led by Sam Altman mentions that an update to GPT-5.1 Pro will also be completed soon. Meanwhile, GPT-5 remains available and can be accessed through the dedicated dropdown menu for existing models. Additionally, OpenAI has made GPT-5.1 available to developers through its API, with versions gpt-5.1-chat-latest, gpt-5.1-codex, and gpt-5.1-codex-mini.