OpenAI has launched two new versions of its flagship language models—GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking—integrated into ChatGPT. These updates aim to offer a more human-like experience, emphasizing warmth, conversational tone, and improved instruction-following capabilities.

This release comes amid ongoing debates about AI behavior. Earlier this year, users criticized previous models for being overly cheerful and overly accommodating, while regulatory bodies scrutinized OpenAI’s adjustments following legal challenges related to sensitive content and safety concerns.

Experts highlight that this balancing act—enhancing user engagement while managing legal and ethical risks—is crucial. According to AI researcher Dr. Jane Smith, “Developers must carefully calibrate personality traits to avoid misleading users or violating regulations.”

The new GPT-5.1 models include eight distinct personalities, adding layers of nuance to interactions. The GPT-5.1 Instant is designed as a faster default for everyday tasks, while GPT-5.1 Thinking focuses on complex reasoning and problem-solving.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.