OpenAI has announced the rollout of new versions of its GPT-4.1 and GPT-4.1 mini language models in the ChatGPT service. This update was officially shared by the company on Wednesday, May 14, via a post on the social network X. The new models are aimed primarily at programmers who require reliable tools for writing and debugging code.
According to OpenAI, GPT-4.1 is faster and performs better than GPT-4o in tasks related to coding and following instructions. It is already accessible to users subscribed to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Team plans. Alongside this, OpenAI is also launching a less powerful GPT-4.1 mini model, which is available to both free and paid users. With this update, the earlier GPT-4.0 mini model has been completely removed from the ChatGPT interface.
These models were first introduced in April 2025 but were initially offered only via API access for developers. Their public launch has sparked some criticism from the research community. The main concern raised is the absence of a published safety report accompanying the release, which some experts interpret as a decline in the transparency of OpenAI’s internal standards.
Safety and Transparency Concerns
Johannes Heidecke, OpenAI’s Head of Security, clarified that GPT-4.1 “does not add new modalities or interaction modes, and does not outperform the GPT-4o model in intelligence.” He noted that while safety considerations remain important, they differ in nature from those that will be required for the next generation of AI models.
In response to the feedback, OpenAI now plans to enhance its transparency efforts, notes NIX Solutions. The company will begin publishing internal safety test results more frequently. These updates will be made available through its newly launched “Safety Evaluations Hub.” We’ll keep you updated as more evaluations and safety insights are released.
Growing Competition in Developer Tools
The release of GPT-4.1 coincides with increased industry interest in AI-powered development tools. Reports indicate that OpenAI is close to finalizing a deal to acquire Windsurf, a popular programming tool, for an estimated US$3 billion. Meanwhile, Google has introduced improvements to its Gemini chatbot, particularly in facilitating integration with GitHub projects.