OpenAI launches o1 model that can solve 'all maths, science problems,' locks it behind $200/month paywall

OpenAI has officially rolled out its highly anticipated o1 model for ChatGPT, promising a new level of problem-solving prowess. Previously teased in a preview, this cutting-edge model has now been paired with a premium subscription tier called ChatGPT Pro, costing a hefty $200 per month. The o1 model claims to tackle complex maths and science challenges with remarkable accuracy, solidifying its position as a powerhouse for businesses and professionals.

o1’s release isn’t just about better answers; it’s about smarter ones. OpenAI has designed o1 to break down questions into bite-sized tasks, handling each step carefully before crafting a response. Compared to earlier versions, the model not only performs faster but also significantly reduces errors, making it a tempting upgrade for users craving precision.

Smarter than ever: What o1 brings to the table

The o1 model’s logic and reasoning abilities represent a major leap forward. OpenAI has shared that the model scores an impressive 83 per cent on the notoriously difficult International Mathematics Olympiad qualifying exam — a far cry from the 13 per cent achieved by its predecessor, GPT-4o. The model also shines in its ability to process images, offering features like handwriting transcription, step-by-step guides, and even object analysis. These tools make it a versatile option for technical tasks and problem-solving.

Notably, the o1 model is faster than ever, addressing one of the biggest drawbacks of the preview version. OpenAI has also cut major errors by 34 per cent, ensuring that users can rely on the model for critical tasks without frustration.

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The $200 price tag: What you get with ChatGPT Pro

This enhanced power doesn’t come cheap. To access o1 without restrictions, users must subscribe to ChatGPT Pro for $200 a month — ten times the cost of the regular $20 ChatGPT Plus plan. While this price point may raise eyebrows, OpenAI has clearly positioned Pro as a business-focused tier. Alongside unlimited o1 access, subscribers also get exclusive updates to GPT-4o and advanced voice features, making it a tempting offer for enterprises.

OpenAI is also softening the blow with a grant programme to provide free access to ChatGPT Pro for medical researchers, underscoring the model’s potential for high-stakes applications.

A step forward, but not GPT-5

Despite the excitement, OpenAI o1 isn’t the GPT-5 many users are eagerly awaiting. However, it’s a significant step forward for AI-powered tools, especially in the face of growing competition from Google’s Gemini and Meta’s AI projects.

Whether the hefty subscription cost is justified will depend on the user, but one thing is clear — OpenAI o1 is a game-changer for those who can afford it.