ChatGPT now offers three modes: Auto, Fast, and Thinking, with rate limits of 3,000 messages/week for Thinking mode.

ChatGPT now offers three modes: Auto, Fast, and Thinking, with rate limits of 3,000 messages/week for Thinking mode.

OpenAI has made a significant move in expanding its reach within the US federal government by offering its advanced AI product, ChatGPT Enterprise, to public agencies for just $1 per agency over the next year. This initiative is part of a new agreement between OpenAI and the US General Services Administration (GSA) [1].

The deal allows agencies to access ChatGPT Enterprise, OpenAI's most advanced commercial AI offering, at a nominal cost via the GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS). This centralized contracting vehicle simplifies technology procurement for civilian federal agencies. The agreement also includes unlimited usage of OpenAI's advanced models for the first 60 days [1].

This pricing strategy positions OpenAI in direct competition with other approved AI vendors such as Google and Anthropic, who were also recently added to the MAS list. The move could significantly accelerate the deployment of OpenAI’s tools across federal departments [1].

Josh Gruenbaum, Commissioner of the GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service, praised the decision, calling on other AI vendors to "follow OpenAI’s lead and work with us." However, the rollout is not without scrutiny. Data privacy and security concerns remain front and centre, particularly regarding how sensitive government data will be handled. A GSA spokesperson stated that a "cautious, security-first approach to AI" is being taken, including the consideration of private cloud or on-premises deployments to ensure regulatory compliance [1].

The announcement comes amid a broader government push to expand AI capabilities. In recent weeks, the Trump administration unveiled an AI Action Plan to accelerate AI adoption within federal agencies, including new investments in data centre infrastructure. This was followed by an executive order from President Trump banning the use of what he called "woke AI," and calling for ideological neutrality in AI tools developed or contracted by the government [1].

OpenAI's strategic partnership with the US government is expected to have a profound impact on the AI landscape within federal agencies. The low-cost, high-access model could lead to more widespread adoption of advanced AI technologies, potentially enhancing efficiency and decision-making across various sectors.

References:
[1] https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/openai-offers-premium-chatgpt-to-us-government-agencies-for-just-1-78453.htm