Introduction to OpenAI’s New Model
OpenAI has recently released a new model, GPT-4.1, which is now available in ChatGPT. This release comes just two weeks after OpenAI made GPT-4 unavailable in ChatGPT on April 30. The earlier model, GPT-4, sparked widespread hype about AI capabilities when it launched in March 2023. In contrast, the rollout of GPT-4.1 has been relatively understated, likely due to the subtle differences between the available OpenAI models.
A Confusing Addition to OpenAI’s Model Lineup
The release of GPT-4.1 coincides with OpenAI’s July 2025 deadline for retiring the GPT-4.5 Preview from the API. Developers must migrate to other options, although GPT-4.5 will remain available in ChatGPT for now. This adds to the confusion surrounding OpenAI’s model lineup. In February, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the complexity of the company’s AI model naming practices, promising that a forthcoming "GPT-5" model would simplify the branding structure. However, the addition of GPT-4.1 to ChatGPT seems to contradict this goal.
Choosing the Right Model
So, which model should you use if you’re using ChatGPT? The choice depends on your personal preferences and what you want to accomplish. If you’re a developer using the models through the API, the consideration is a trade-off between capability, speed, and cost. In ChatGPT, some models have lower usage limits due to their higher cost. OpenAI is keeping GPT-4o as the default model due to its versatility, balance between speed and capability, and personable style.
Model Comparison
The simulated reasoning models, such as 03 and 04-mini-high, are slower to execute but can consider analytical-style problems more systematically and perform comprehensive web research. In contrast, GPT-4.1 is positioned as a speedier AI model for coding assistance. However, all AI models are prone to confabulations, meaning they tend to make up authoritative-sounding information when they encounter gaps in their trained "knowledge." Therefore, it’s essential to double-check the outputs with other sources of information.
Conclusion
The release of GPT-4.1 adds to the complexity of OpenAI’s model lineup, making it challenging for users to choose the right model. While GPT-4.1 offers speedier coding assistance, other models like GPT-4o and the simulated reasoning models have their strengths. Ultimately, users must consider their needs and preferences when selecting a model and always verify the accuracy of the outputs.
FAQs
- Q: What is GPT-4.1, and how does it differ from other OpenAI models?
A: GPT-4.1 is a new model released by OpenAI, positioned as a speedier AI model for coding assistance. Its differences from other models are subtle, and the choice of model depends on personal preferences and needs. - Q: Why is OpenAI retiring the GPT-4.5 Preview from the API?
A: OpenAI is retiring the GPT-4.5 Preview from the API due to its limitations, and developers must migrate to other options. - Q: How can I choose the right model for my needs?
A: Consider your personal preferences, the task you want to accomplish, and the trade-offs between capability, speed, and cost. Always verify the accuracy of the outputs, as all AI models are prone to confabulations.
