OpenAI Set to Launch GPT-5.1 Series with Performance Upgrades & New Codex Model

OpenAI is preparing to release its GPT-5.1 series to the public, which will include GPT-5.1 (base), GPT-5.1 Reasoning, and GPT-5.1 Pro. The new lineup is expected to be available to subscribers at $200 per month and will soon be accessible through Azure, signaling a rollout within the coming weeks.

The GPT-5.1 series is anticipated to bring improvements in speed and health-related safeguards, although it is not expected to be a major upgrade over GPT-5, which was launched on August 7. OpenAI typically introduces new models every three to four months.

In addition to the GPT-5.1 series, OpenAI has unveiled a new cost-efficient Codex model called GPT-5-Codex-Mini. This model maintains performance comparable to the original Codex High while providing a 50% increase in rate limits, making it ideal for simpler tasks or users approaching their usage limits.

A new feature automatically suggests switching to Codex-Mini when a user reaches 90% of their rate limit, ensuring uninterrupted workflow. According to OpenAI, GPT-5-Codex-Mini allows roughly four times more usage than the standard GPT-5-Codex, though with a slight tradeoff in capability due to its compact design.

The update also benefits ChatGPT Plus, Business, and Education users with a 50% increase in rate limits, while Pro and Enterprise accounts will receive priority processing for faster performance. GPT-5.1 is expected to include additional enhancements for Codex, further improving user experience.

Read more: OpenAI developing AI tool to generate music from text and audio

OpenAI is not the only company advancing AI models. Google is testing Gemini 3 Pro, and there are reports of a new Claude model in development, highlighting the ongoing competition in the AI space.

The GPT-5.1 rollout and the introduction of Codex-Mini mark OpenAI’s continued effort to improve AI performance and accessibility for a wide range of users.