OpenAI Proposes Free ChatGPT Plus for All UK Citizens in £2 Billion Deal

OpenAI and the UK government have entered into a preliminary, non-binding agreement to enhance access to ChatGPT Plus, a premium tier of the AI chatbot service, as part of broader artificial intelligence adoption initiatives. The discussions, led by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and UK Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, focus on expanding the use of AI in public services such as education and healthcare, without direct integration of blockchain or cryptocurrency technologies [1].

This agreement marks a significant step in the UK’s efforts to position itself at the forefront of AI development and deployment. It outlines potential collaboration between OpenAI and the UK government, including the possibility of the government contributing public-sector data to support AI integration. The agreement is described as non-binding and subject to further negotiation, reflecting the exploratory nature of the discussions [2].

According to reports, Altman proposed a potential deal worth £2 billion or more, offering all UK citizens free access to ChatGPT Plus. The premium tier offers enhanced features and faster response times compared to the free version of the service. However, UK officials expressed skepticism about the feasibility of a large-scale subscription model, with concerns over the financial burden of providing free access to a $20-per-month service to the entire population [3].

OpenAI has previously signed an MoU with the UK government in July 2025 to explore ways to support the growth of AI in the country. The company emphasized its goal of democratizing access to AI so that its benefits can be widely distributed. Despite these intentions, the UK government has not yet committed to the proposal, with the science and technology department stating that no formal proposal to provide free ChatGPT Plus access has been taken forward [4].

The discussions reflect a growing trend of governments seeking to leverage AI technologies to improve public services. The UK has already begun integrating AI tools into its public sector operations, but the financial and logistical challenges of providing free premium access to an entire population remain a significant hurdle [5].

Historically, similar agreements between tech firms and governments have influenced the technology sector but have had minimal direct impact on the cryptocurrency market. This deal does not integrate blockchain or crypto payments, maintaining a clear focus on AI-based software as a service [6]. Analysts remain cautious about potential future developments, noting that regulatory outcomes and ongoing negotiations will likely shape the final form of the agreement [7].

Source:

[1] The Guardian - https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/aug/23/uk-minister-peter-kyle-chatgpt-plus-openai-sam-altman

[2] Tom's Hardware - https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/artificial-intelligence/sam-altman-and-uk-government-minister-reportedly-discussed-giving-chatgpt-plus-to-all-brits-for-free

[3] The Economic Times - https://m.economictimes.com/tech/artificial-intelligence/sam-altman-offered-chatgpt-plus-for-all-uk-citizens-in-2-billion-deal/articleshow/123483397.cms

[4] OpenAI Statement - https://betanews.com/2025/08/24/sam-altman-wants-to-give-everyone-in-the-uk-free-access-to-chatgpt-plus/