Sam Altman’s announcement of OpenAI’s O1, the “smartest model in the world,” has set off a whirlwind of reactions across the internet. Alongside the new model, OpenAI also introduced ChatGPT Pro, a subscription service priced at $200 per month that promises unlimited usage and an even more advanced version of O1. While the launch showcases the cutting-edge capabilities of OpenAI’s technology, it’s also sparked debates over accessibility, ethics, and the future direction of AI.
For tech enthusiasts, O1 represents a leap forward in AI reasoning and functionality. Early tests showcase the model’s remarkable ability to process multimodal inputs, execute complex tasks, and generate working software in minutes based on simple prompts. One user highlighted its performance by feeding it an XKCD comic and asking for functional software, which O1 delivered in less than 15 minutes. Another used the model to plan a hypothetical data centre, where O1 handled both visualisation and reasoning with ease. The examples point to a system capable of addressing real-world problems with efficiency and clarity, marking a potential game-changer in AI-driven productivity.
However, the buzz around O1 isn’t all celebratory. Many users have expressed concerns over the steep pricing of ChatGPT Pro. While the standard version of ChatGPT remains free, the premium Pro tier—designed to maximise O1’s potential—has drawn criticism for its $200 monthly fee. Critics argue that the cost risks creating a divide where only the wealthy can afford access to the best AI tools, raising questions about inclusivity and fairness.
One user responded to Altman’s tweet with a pointed question: “Sam, shouldn’t AI normally become cheaper over time? But you are making it more expensive. Looks like only the wealthy will be able to use it in the future.” The sentiment reflects a broader concern that technological advancements in AI might prioritise profit over accessibility.
Others were less restrained in their criticism. Twitter user Reid Southen didn’t hold back, describing the subscription as “$200/month for a service that lies, steals, and plagiarises,” before adding an offhanded jab at OpenAI’s leadership. Similarly, Valentina Gomez dismissed the product outright, claiming, “Nobody is paying $200 for your product. You’ve proven to be a liar. We don’t use Google or ChatGPT; we now use GROK.”
The polarised responses reveal a growing frustration among users who feel alienated by the pricing and ethics surrounding AI development. While some hail the launch as a transformative moment in AI, others see it as a step backward for inclusivity and trust.
For OpenAI, the challenge lies in balancing innovation with accessibility. On one hand, the advancements demonstrated by O1 could redefine how individuals and businesses interact with AI, offering unprecedented tools for problem-solving and creativity. On the other, the high cost of entry for premium features risks alienating a significant portion of potential users.
The introduction of ChatGPT Pro also raises broader questions about the business model of AI companies. OpenAI’s move suggests a shift toward monetising advanced features and prioritising paying customers, a strategy that may become more common as AI tools grow in capability and demand. While this model aligns with traditional software subscription services, it risks creating a perception of exclusivity that could undermine public trust in AI as a democratising force.
Meanwhile, rival platforms like Elon Musk’s GROK have seized the opportunity to position themselves as alternatives. Whether GROK or other competitors can match O1’s technical prowess remains to be seen, but their appeal to users disillusioned with OpenAI’s pricing could gain traction in the months ahead.
Despite the backlash, there’s no denying the potential of O1. Its ability to seamlessly integrate reasoning across text, images, and diagrams, coupled with its speed and accuracy, sets a high benchmark for the industry. Use cases like designing software or optimising physical spaces suggest that O1 could have a significant impact across sectors, from education to engineering. However, the question remains: who will have access to these tools, and at what cost?
As the conversation around O1 and ChatGPT Pro unfolds, it’s clear that the stakes are higher than ever for OpenAI. The technology’s promise is immense, but so too are the challenges of ensuring that its benefits are shared equitably. For now, the debate rages on, with users divided between awe at the system’s capabilities and frustration over the barriers to entry.