OpenAI releases cheaper AI model for coding and work tasks

OpenAI has announced a new artificial intelligence model called GPT-6.1 Sol. Think of AI models as smart computer programs trained to understand and generate text. This new model is designed to help people with coding (writing computer instructions), using computers for complex tasks, and professional work.

Here's what makes it interesting: GPT-6.1 Sol performs nearly as well as OpenAI's most advanced model, called Astra, but it costs five times less to use. When you use an AI model, you pay for the amount of text you send in and receive back — this is measured in "tokens," which are small chunks of text. By reducing these costs, OpenAI is making powerful AI accessible to more people and businesses, even those with smaller budgets.

Why does this matter? If you're a developer building apps, a business automating tasks, or someone using AI tools regularly, cheaper costs mean you can do more with your budget. You no longer have to choose between using the best AI or staying within budget — GPT-6.1 Sol tries to offer both. This could make AI tools more affordable for startups, small businesses, and everyday users who want professional-grade help with coding and work tasks.