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How to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus (and 5 reasons why you should)
When ChatGPT was first unveiled in November 2022, it was free for all users. However, its quick surge in popularity caused extended wait times and blackout periods. As a result, OpenAI added its subscription plan that helped users avoid the wait and access other convenient perks.
Also: ChatGPT vs ChatGPT Plus: Is it worth the subscription fee?
ChatGPT's subscription plan is called ChatGPT Plus and costs $20/month. Since its introduction, the paid subscription model has offered different perks to subscribers. The highlights now include priority access to new, unreleased features and improvements, including OpenAI's latest and greatest updates, such as priority access to GPT-4o, data analysis enhancements, Voice Mode, MacOS app, and more.
All these features combined make ChatGPT Plus a must-subscribe for individuals who rely on ChatGPT for their daily workflow. If you're not convinced, here are the five most compelling reasons why a ChatGPT Plus subscription might be worth it.
1. You want priority access to GPT-4o
During its Spring Update event, OpenAI unveiled ChatGPT upgrades, including its latest flagship model, GPT-4o. The model keeps the intelligence of GPT-4, a big perk because of its advanced capabilities. However, it adds many new perks, including inputting a combination of text, audio, image, and video and receiving any combination of text, audio, and image outputs.
Also: 6 ways OpenAI just supercharged ChatGPT for free users
GPT-4o is being rolled out first to ChatGPT Plus and Team users. If you want to be the first to access GPT-4o, the subscription may be worth it. Don't let the term "roll out" make you think of a long wait because, as a ChatGPT Plus subscriber, I have already gotten access to GPT-4o. ChatGPT Plus users will also get priority access to GPT-4o even after it rolls out to free users. This access means that when the new model is at capacity, free users will be booted to GPT-3.5 while subscribers can continue enjoying GPT-4o.
2. You need a greater message limit
After OpenAI supercharged the free version of its chatbot, the perks of subscription were less obvious. However, one of the biggest selling points of ChatGPT Plus is its greater message limit for users. Compared to free users, subscribers have a five times greater message limit, with Team and Enterprise users having even higher limits.
Also: ChatGPT Enterprise vs. ChatGPT Team: Which is the best for your business?
If using ChatGPT has become a cornerstone of your workflow and a tool you rely on to complete everyday tasks, then you would benefit from ChatGPT Plus's greater message limit. This feature makes it less likely you will run out of messages and be unable to use the tool for your tasks.
3. You want to experience the new Voice Mode first
One of the coolest features announced during OpenAi's Spring Updates event was a new Voice Mode, which allows users to chat with ChatGPT via real-time video. As seen in the demo below, with the new Voice Mode, ChatGPT can respond to queries and continue the conversation, taking into account your surroundings:
Live audience request for GPT-4o vision capabilities pic.twitter.com/FPRXpZ2I9N
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) May 13, 2024
Voice Mode includes other upgrades that make the chatbot a more conversational experience, including pausing when interrupted and voice variations. The new Voice Mode and all its upgrades will be available first in alpha to ChatGPT Plus users.
4. You want to use the MacOS app
During the same Spring event, OpenAI launched a new ChatGPT MacOS desktop app to provide users with a more seamless ChatGPT integration. MacOS app users can access ChatGPT with a keyboard shortcut to ask the chatbot a question. Users can also take and discuss screenshots from the app, and start voice conversations.
The MacOS app is only available to ChatGPT Plus users, with a broader rollout coming in the upcoming weeks.
Also: The ChatGPT desktop app is more helpful than I expected - here's why and how to try it
If you are a ChatGPT Plus subscriber, you can access the software by going to your account menu and clicking "Download the MacOS app".
5. You want an enhanced data analysis experience
In May, OpenAI also announced enhancements to data analysis, including the ability to upload files to ChatGPT from Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive, view tables and charts in a new expandable view, and create customizable, downloadable tables and charts to use in presentations and documents.
Also: ChatGPT will put your data into interactive tables and charts with GPT-4o
These updates will be available only to ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Enterprise users via GPT-4o in the upcoming weeks.
How to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus
If you want to expand how you use ChatGPT and experience all the chatbot has to offer, you have to create or sign in to your OpenAI account. Then, you can click the 'Upgrade to Plus' button, select ChatGPT Plus, and complete the transaction.
FAQs
Can I still use ChatGPT for free?
Yes, the free version is still available to the public. With the free plan, you get full access to the chatbot. The disadvantages of the free plan are that you won't be able to access the bot during periods of high demand and won't have access to the latest updates, such as ChatGPT's enhanced data analysis feature.
How much is ChatGPT Plus membership?
ChatGPT Plus membership is currently priced at $20/month. Although this might seem steep, it is comparable to similar subscriptions such as Copilot Pro, which is also $20/month.
Is there a waitlist for ChatGPT Plus?
After OpenAI unveiled new features for ChatGPT Plus on DevDay, there was a surge in subscribers, which triggered a pause in ChatGPT Plus signups. However, OpenAI reopened signups and now you can proceed as usual.
What are the advantages of a ChatGPT Plus membership?
The biggest perks of a ChatGPT Plus membership include priority access to the latest upgrades, such as GPT-4o and the new Voice Mode.
Is ChatGPT Plus worth it?
The answer to this question depends on your personal use case. However, ZDNET experts have tested the tool and found the subscription fee is worth the cost because ChatGPT Plus is smarter, more accurate, and more reliable.