By Key Points
- OpenAI o1-mini expands access to free users.
- The model excels in problem-solving, science, and coding tasks.
- Learn how to access the o1-mini on both desktop and mobile.
- Experience advanced reasoning capabilities previously reserved for paid users.
OpenAI has expanded access to its OpenAI o1-mini model for free users of ChatGPT, delivering advanced reasoning capabilities at no cost.
The o1-mini model was unveiled alongside its more powerful sibling, OpenAI o1, but was initially restricted to Plus, Team, and Enterprise users.
Now, free users can finally experience what this next-level AI can offer, opening the door for broader use of its enhanced problem-solving capabilities.
This move gives free users access to one of the most exciting models OpenAI has developed. The OpenAI o1-mini promises a leap in reasoning and understanding, particularly in complex fields such as science, coding, and mathematics, allowing users to solve more difficult tasks that were once out of reach.
We’re releasing a preview of OpenAI o1—a new series of AI models designed to spend more time thinking before they respond.
These models can reason through complex tasks and solve harder problems than previous models in science, coding, and math. https://t.co/peKzzKX1bu
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) September 12, 2024
How to Access OpenAI o1-Mini on Different Devices
To take advantage of OpenAI o1-mini on desktop, users can find the model by heading to the “ChatGPT Auto” dropdown in the top-left corner. Once you click it, look for “Alpha Models” and select o1-mini if your account has access.
The dropdown will update with the alpha symbol, signaling that you’re using the alpha version of ChatGPT.
Mobile users follow a slightly different process. On the ChatGPT mobile app, you can long-press a response, and then click “Change Model” in the context menu. You should now see a model called “Alpha [GPT-4o],” which is likely to be the o1-mini or an upgraded version.
While OpenAI hasn’t confirmed whether this specific mobile model is o1-mini, the added functionality points in that direction.
Why OpenAI o1-Mini is a Game-Changer
What makes OpenAI o1-mini special is its ability to “think” longer before generating a response. This allows the model to reason through complex problems and deliver higher-quality outputs, especially in areas like science, math, and coding.
OpenAI claims that both o1 and o1-mini models perform at a level similar to a PhD student across various disciplines, including physics, chemistry, and biology.
The model has shown stellar performance in competitions that assess these skills. For example, OpenAI o1-mini scored an impressive 83% on the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) qualifying exam.
This compares with the GPT-4o model, which only scored 13%. It’s also performed remarkably well in coding challenges on Codeforces, ranking in the 89th percentile.
These results suggest that OpenAI o1-mini is a true game-changer, particularly for users who need help solving complex, technical problems that require deep thought and precision.
What Free Users Can Expect From OpenAI o1-Mini
The introduction of OpenAI o1-mini to the free tier marks a pivotal moment for users who were previously limited to less capable models.
With access to this new model, free users can expect better answers to complex questions, more accurate problem-solving, and improved performance in technical tasks.
This enhanced access allows for a broader range of use cases. From solving math problems that require multiple steps of reasoning to coding solutions that need a more thoughtful approach, OpenAI o1-mini is a massive leap forward in AI capabilities.
Additionally, the model is particularly strong in scientific queries, making it an excellent tool for students, professionals, and hobbyists alike who are working in technical fields.
