Top Notch ChatGPT Functions Accessible to All Free Users
In a significant move, OpenAI's latest AI model, ChatGPT, now offers unlimited access to its standard GPT-5 intelligence level on the free plan, albeit with usage limits.
With the addition of web browsing capabilities, ChatGPT, when Search is turned on, can now draw upon the web as a major resource for answering questions, making it more accurate and useful for real-time information.
The free tier of ChatGPT's GPT-5 model offers unlimited access to the standard GPT-5 intelligence level but with usage limits of 10 messages every 5 hours. After reaching this limit, users are automatically switched to the smaller GPT-5 mini model. The system uses smart abuse thresholds to ensure fair use across all free users while maintaining access.
Regarding reasoning capabilities, full GPT-5 reasoning for free-tier users is still rolling out but is expected to become fully available within a few days after launch. Users can, however, access different GPT-5 modes such as "Fast" (instant answers), "Thinking" (deeper reasoning), and "Pro" (research-grade intelligence) via model picker options, but advanced modes like "Thinking Pro" are reserved for paid tiers.
For image generation, the free tier offers a basic level of image generation functionality, while enhanced and premium image generation features are available in paid plans.
As for ChatGPT Voice, this feature is available on the free tier, allowing users to interact with GPT-5 via voice input and output.
Here's a summary of the features available on the free tier:
| Feature | Availability on Free Tier | |------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------| | Model Access | Standard GPT-5 (unlimited messages but 10 per 5 hrs limit) + GPT-5 mini after limit reached | | Usage Limits | 10 messages every 5 hours before fallback to mini model | | Reasoning Capabilities | Rolling out; "Fast" and basic modes available; full deeper reasoning coming soon | | Image Generation | Basic image generation capabilities | | ChatGPT Voice | Available | | Web Browsing | Included |
This setup balances open access with responsible usage limits for free users, while paid tiers unlock faster responses, deeper reasoning, enhanced image generation, and priority access.
In other news, OpenAI is currently facing a lawsuit by Ziff Davis, the parent company of this website, alleging copyright infringement in training and operating its AI systems.
