ChatGPT-5 Availability and Features

in August 2025, as described by Gemini AI

Transparency label: AI-only


Based on the latest information, ChatGPT-5 has been released and is now available to all users, though with varying access levels and features depending on the subscription plan.

Here’s a breakdown of the availability and features for paying subscribers:

Availability for All Users:

  • Default Model: ChatGPT-5 is now the default model for all users, replacing previous versions like GPT-4o.
  • Unified System: The new system is designed to automatically select the best model for a given task. It has a fast, general-purpose model for everyday queries and a more advanced “GPT-5 Thinking” model for complex reasoning tasks. A built-in router decides which one to use.
  • Usage Limits: Free users have a cap on the number of messages they can send. Once this limit is reached, the system automatically switches to a smaller, “mini” version of the model to maintain functionality.

Additional Features for Paying Subscribers (Plus, Pro, and Team Plans):

  • Increased Usage Limits: Paying subscribers have significantly higher message caps, allowing for more extensive use of the powerful models.
  • Model Picker: Paid users have access to a model picker, allowing them to manually switch between the standard GPT-5 model and the “GPT-5 Thinking” model for more control over their responses.
  • GPT-5 Pro (Pro and Team Tiers): Subscribers on the Pro and Team tiers get access to a specialized version, “GPT-5 Thinking Pro.” This model takes a bit longer to respond but provides more accurate results for complex and demanding tasks.
  • Advanced Capabilities: In addition to the core model improvements, paying subscribers also get access to a wider range of features, including:
    • Advanced Voice Mode: Enhanced, natural voice conversations.
    • Image Generation: Higher usage limits for the DALL-E 3 image generation tool.
    • Custom GPTs: The ability to create and use custom, specialized versions of the chatbot.
    • File Analysis: The ability to upload and analyze documents and images.
    • Deep Research Tools: Access to specialized tools for fields like finance, science, and engineering.
    • Priority Access: Fewer interruptions during high-traffic periods.

New Features in ChatGPT-5 for All Users:

The new GPT-5 model itself brings significant improvements across the board, including:

  • Improved Reasoning: The model is now capable of more complex and accurate reasoning.
  • Reduced Hallucinations: It’s more factual and reliable, with a significant reduction in generated false information.
  • Enhanced Writing and Coding: The model produces higher-quality, more coherent writing and more functional, aesthetically-pleasing code.
  • Better Instruction Following: It is much better at understanding and executing complex, multi-step instructions.
  • Advanced Health Capabilities: GPT-5 has an improved ability to understand and interpret medical terminology, and can even flag potential health risks based on user input, though it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice.