OpenAI is rolling out its most advanced AI model yet, ChatGPT Astra, to subscribers with paid plans starting at $20 per month. The company has not confirmed when Astra will become available to free ChatGPT users.
The ChatGPT Astra rollout appears to be taking place in stages. For some users, the model is available in ChatGPT Work before appearing in the standard ChatGPT model picker.
In a ChatGPT Plus account, Astra is already available in the ChatGPT Work section but does not yet appear in regular chats.
To check whether you have access, open ChatGPT Work and select the model picker. Eligible users may see the following option:
Source: BleepingComputer
If you have a ChatGPT Plus subscription but cannot find Astra in regular chats, checking ChatGPT Work may provide early access.
OpenAI previously confirmed that it was expanding access to Astra for Plus subscribers. However, the phased rollout means it may take several days before the model is visible to all eligible users.
OpenAI also announced that Astra is available to Pro, Enterprise, and Business Premium users in ChatGPT Work and Codex. The model is also available through the OpenAI API, according to a post on X.
OpenAI added that the rollout to Plus and Business users could take several days.
ChatGPT Astra is included with ChatGPT Plus
OpenAI says ChatGPT Astra usage is included within existing subscription limits. This means ChatGPT Plus users do not need to purchase a separate plan to access the new AI model.
Users can also purchase additional credits if they need more Astra usage beyond their subscription allowance.
ChatGPT Astra is OpenAI’s latest flagship model, designed to support computer-use tasks, web browsing, software development, scientific research, cybersecurity, and other long-term professional workflows.
OpenAI says Astra is also significantly better than GPT-5.6 Sol at retaining context while handling complex, multi-step tasks.
ChatGPT Astra is currently being rolled out to paid subscribers. OpenAI has not said whether the model will eventually be offered to free users or what usage limits may apply. At present, free ChatGPT users have access to GPT-5.6 Sol and GPT-5.
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Source: www.bleepingcomputer.com