Big Changes Coming to ChatGPT A New Browser and More

OpenAI is making significant moves to expand the capabilities and accessibility of ChatGPT, with several major updates on the horizon. From a new web browser to a more affordable subscription plan and enhanced user interaction features, the AI powerhouse is signaling a new phase of development.

OpenAI's Foray into Web Browsing

Recent discoveries suggest OpenAI is developing a new web browser built on Chromium. Initial findings, first reported by Tibor Blaho, indicate that a version for macOS may be the first to launch. This browser is expected to be deeply integrated with ChatGPT at its core, aiming to revolutionize how users navigate the internet.

Unlike conventional browsers, this new software points toward AI-driven features like automatic tab management and a customizable new tab page. The goal is to have ChatGPT directly handle browsing tasks, an extension of the existing Agent mode. Currently, Agent mode operates in a cloud-based Linux environment, where it can already execute tasks like document creation using online resources by interacting with a remote browser. The new development suggests OpenAI is creating a local browser to work alongside the cloud option, giving users more seamless control and keeping more activity within the ChatGPT ecosystem.

A More Accessible ChatGPT Go Plan

To broaden its user base, OpenAI is also experimenting with its pricing structure. A new, lower-cost subscription tier called ChatGPT Go is currently in testing. Evidence of this new plan has appeared in some user dashboards, showing a "Try Go" button with a price of four US dollars. The presence of equivalent pricing in euros and pounds suggests a global rollout is being prepared.

This affordable tier could attract a new wave of users who find the current subscription prices prohibitive, making advanced AI features more accessible to a wider audience.

Enhanced Voice and Model Controls

Significant upgrades are also coming to ChatGPT's voice mode. Hidden settings have been discovered that allow users to adjust the AI's speech speed, with options ranging from half to double the normal pace. This feature offers greater personalization, allowing for clearer, slower speech or faster, more efficient updates.

Additionally, a new custom instructions prefix for voice interactions will enable the system to remember user preferences, eliminating the need to repeat common instructions. The model selector is also being updated, with subscribers seeing options for GPT-5 labeled as high, fast, and auto. Access to GPT-4o has also been restored for paying users.

GPT-5 Adopts a Warmer Personality

In response to user feedback, OpenAI is subtly adjusting the personality of GPT-5. The company announced it is making the model's responses warmer and more approachable, moving away from a style that some users found overly formal. This change is designed to be minor, with the model sometimes using conversational openers like "Good question." Internal tests confirmed this adjustment did not increase flattery.

The update has received mixed reactions. While some welcome a more conversational AI, others have expressed a preference for the more direct and restrained style of GPT-4o, emphasizing the need for clear information delivery over added warmth. This change is being rolled out gradually to all users.