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OpenAI recently introduced GPT-4.1, an advanced AI model for ChatGPT that enhances its ability to manage longer conversations and improve coding capabilities. This update has made the AI more intelligent and quicker, but there are some differences in availability for paid subscribers compared to free users.

What’s New in GPT-4.1

The upgrade brings exciting advancements, marking a huge improvement over previous ChatGPT models.

With GPT-4.1, the AI can now handle up to 1 million tokens in a single conversation—a significant jump from the earlier cap of 128,000 tokens. This enhancement allows it to manage and retain longer discussions or documents without losing focus. The models have been trained on data up until June 2024 (the cutoff date for knowledge).

Moreover, it excels in coding and adhering to detailed instructions. According to OpenAI, GPT-4.1 surpasses its predecessor, GPT-4o, particularly for technical tasks. OpenAI’s industry benchmark assessments show that GPT-4.1 significantly outperforms older models:

By closely addressing real-world developer needs—ranging from coding to instruction-following and understanding lengthy contexts—these models open up new opportunities for creating intelligent systems and advanced applications.

Three versions are available: GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and GPT-4.1 nano.

In the model release notes, OpenAI announced that GPT-4.1 is now accessible for all paid ChatGPT account tiers. Pro and Team users can select it from the model picker dropdown. Paid users will experience the same rate limits as GPT-4o.

Enterprise and Edu users will gain access in “the coming weeks,” according to OpenAI.

Unfortunately, free users currently do not have access. However, once they reach their usage limits on GPT-4o, all free users can utilize the compact yet efficient GPT-4.1 mini option in the model picker.

For free users, GPT-4.1 mini is the recommended choice, though some usage limits may apply during peak times. Nonetheless, this update enhances the experience for free-tier users.

GPT‑4.1 nano is the smallest, fastest, and most economical model in the GPT-4.1 series, optimized for speed. OpenAI has not specified a rollout date for this model.

More Power for Coders and Developers

GPT-4.1 introduces substantial enhancements in comprehending complex inputs and coding tasks. I’ve observed that earlier versions sometimes struggled with lengthy conversations, making this enhancement particularly valuable.

This update was inspired largely by the developer community, addressing tangible needs. This comes at a time when AI coding tools are gaining traction. Reports suggest that OpenAI is nearing a $3 billion acquisition of Windsurf, one of the leading AI coding tools. Additionally, Google has updated its advanced version of the Gemini chatbot to facilitate integration with GitHub projects.

For non-developers, choosing which model to use can still be confusing given the new names, which don’t clarify the differences well.

OpenAI now offers various ChatGPT models, along with their mini and nano variations. For many users, this can feel overwhelming. Streamlining AI model names or providing clearer descriptions would save time and help users make more informed decisions when using ChatGPT.