AI tools are celebrated as transformative innovations in work, entertainment, and communication. Yet, two trends are emerging in parallel. On one hand, these technologies are steadily integrating into everyday life. On the other, their escalating costs are creating a stark divide, separating AI systems accessible to the wealthy from those available for everyone else.
ChatGPT for the rich. Until recently, ChatGPT offered both free and paid versions. ChatGPT Plus provided additional features at a reasonable cost. Now, OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Pro, priced at $200 a month. This version offers unlimited access to the most advanced models and advanced voice interaction—features that are undeniably impressive but come at a steep price.
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ChatGPT |
ChatGPT Plus |
ChatGPT Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
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Price |
Free |
$20 / month |
$200 / month |
|
Available models |
GPT-4o mini |
|
|
|
Multimodality |
|
|
|
|
Access to voice interaction |
Limited access to standard speech |
|
Unlimited access to advanced speech |
|
Custom GPTs |
Use of custom GPTs |
Creation and use of custom GPTs |
Creation and use of custom GPTs |
For heavy users, the cost may be justified. If an AI tool priced at $200 a month can save hours by completing tasks in minutes, is it truly expensive? For many, the answer is no.
Programming as a case study. AI tools are increasingly vital for software developers, who use them to streamline routine tasks and save time.
The emerging class divide. Alberto Romero, author of the newsletter The Algorithmic Bridge, recently explored the potential class divide in AI systems access. As companies like OpenAI continue developing advanced models, these tools will become even more specialized and useful. Those willing and able to pay will gain privileged access to the latest advancements.
“OpenAI will play the market under the only rules that matter: supply and demand,” Romero wrote. “If their agents can do incredible feats, at the level of humans, they will sell them at a comparable price. We won’t be able to afford the new AI agents but will instead play with scraps at best and compete with them for the budget of our employees at worst.”
The risk of a growing digital divide. This debate raises concerns about a future where the digital divide widens further. Those with access to advanced AI models will gain a significant competitive edge in productivity. Countries and individuals with the means to access these tools will progress faster and more effectively, leaving others behind.
Advertising as a possible solution. For those unable to afford advanced AI tools, advertising-based models could provide an alternative. This approach has already transformed industries such as media and streaming, where ad-supported plans make services more affordable. A similar model could emerge for AI, offering access to advanced tools at a lower cost in exchange for ad exposure. A “ChatGPT with ads” could bring advanced AI to a broader audience without the steep price tag.
Image | Xataka On with Grok
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