ChatGPT 5.1 is smarter, friendlier and creates a better atmosphere than ever

The two main models that OpenAI has released are: GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking.

GPT-5.1 Instant is the model most people will use, and it’s now warmer and more talkative by default. OpenAI says it is better at following instructions and can even decide when to think before answering tougher questions. That means you should get faster answers for simple things, and more thoughtful answers when you ask something more complex.

One of the biggest new additions is the expanded personality types for ChatGPT. It’s a fun new way to personalize the chatbot and make it sound the way you want. You can now choose from eight preset styles:

• Standard (balanced style and tone)
• Friendly (warm and talkative)
• Efficient (concise and clear)
• Professional (Polished and precise) (New)
• Bright (Direct and encouraging) (New)
• Quirky (Playful and imaginative) (New)
• Cynical (critical and sarcastic)
• Nerdy (exploratory and enthusiastic)

Some of these personality traits existed before, but OpenAI claims it has improved these traits as well. The AI ​​can even suggest changes in tone during conversations if it senses you asking for a different style.

Deployment and availability of ChatGPT 5.1

GPT-5.1 is rolling out today to Pro, Plus, Go and Business users. This will be followed by a rollout for free and logged out users in the coming days. Enterprise and Education customers will get seven days of early access before it becomes the standard for everyone.

If you don’t see GPT-5.1 yet, don’t worry. OpenAI says it is a gradual rollout to maintain stability. Older GPT-5 models are kept under ‘legacy models’ for three months, giving users time to compare and adjust.