OpenAI Prepares To Launch Expensive New ChatGPT Features

OpenAI is setting the stage for a new wave of advanced AI capabilities, but access will come at a premium. In a recent announcement, CEO Sam Altman hinted at upcoming features for ChatGPT that are both powerful and exceptionally resource-intensive.

The High Cost of Cutting-Edge AI

The development and operation of these new functionalities are described as being particularly costly and energy-intensive. This high operational overhead is the primary reason for the strategic pricing and access limitations that will be put in place upon their release.

Exclusive Access for Pro Subscribers

According to the details shared, these powerful new features will not be available to all users. Access will be restricted to subscribers of ChatGPT’s high-tier Pro plan, which currently costs $200 per month. Furthermore, it was indicated that even these premium subscribers might need to pay an additional fee to unlock and use the new tools, suggesting a pay-per-use or add-on model.

Future Plans for Accessibility

While the initial rollout will be exclusive and costly, Altman provided reassurance that the company is actively working on optimization. He stated that OpenAI's goal is to reduce the operational costs of these features as quickly as possible, which could eventually lead to lower prices and broader accessibility for a wider range of users. For now, early adopters and enterprise clients will be the first to experience the next evolution of ChatGPT, as detailed in Altman's post.