Users Report Free Access to GPT-4 on ChatGPT
Users of the free version of ChatGPT reported that they were unexpectedly given access to GPT-4, the advanced and multimodal capable version of OpenAI’s large language model. One user, TimelessTraveler on OpenAI’s official forum, shared their experience. They mentioned seeing a new model named ‘GPT-4 all tools, confidential’ and being able to use it and upload images, files, and generate images using DALL·E-3 despite being on the free plan. The user also wondered why OpenAI put a disclaimer on the screen saying the feature was “confidential.”
Unexpected Access Sparks Discussion
This unexpected access to GPT-4—typically exclusive to subscribers to the premium version—sparked eager discussions among users. Forum member Foxabilo speculated about the occurrence, suggesting that it could be a preview of features for users who have not tried GPT-4 or an error that allowed everyone to try it.
Limited Duration of Access
Many users reported losing access to the feature after having it for a couple of days. This temporary access coincides with the recent introduction of GPT-4 Turbo this week. OpenAI was unable to respond to a request for comment from Decrypt.
OpenAI’s Strategy and Competitors
The temporary access sparked speculation about OpenAI’s strategy against competitors like Claude and Google Bard. OpenAI’s move could be a strategic response to developments in AI technology, including Anthropic’s leveraging of Google’s advanced Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) to train more sophisticated models.
Possible Test of Market Competitiveness
If OpenAI were considering offering a preview of GPT-4’s capabilities to free users, it might be a way to gauge public interest in preparation for future advancements in AI technology.
Hot Take: OpenAI’s Strategic Move or Glitch?
In the race for AI superiority, OpenAI’s inadvertent exposure of GPT-4 to free users may be a clever ploy to stay ahead in the game. This incident underscores the rapidly changing dynamics of AI technology.