OpenAI is reportedly preparing a major change to its subscription model. After months of speculation and rising operational costs, the company might soon introduce weekly and lifetime subscription plans for ChatGPT, offering new ways for users to access its advanced AI features.
OpenAI is testing new subscription models
According to code strings found in a recent APK teardown of the ChatGPT app, OpenAI is exploring both short-term access and permanent lifetime subscriptions to its AI services. This would be in addition to its current $20/month ChatGPT Plus plan and yearly Team and Enterprise options.
A lifetime plan would mark a dramatic shift, especially in a sector as rapidly evolving (and expensive) as generative AI. While no pricing details have been confirmed, the move could appeal to power users who rely on ChatGPT regularly for research, coding, writing or creative tasks.
AI is getting more expensive to run
Part of the push for new subscription models comes from OpenAI’s financial reality. The company has raised billions in funding but still faces massive operational costs, especially from running large AI models and maintaining a top-tier team. Premium features like “Deep Research” and custom AI agents have further increased the need for sustainable income streams.
For more casual users, a weekly plan could be a more affordable and flexible entry point, particularly for those who only need AI assistance occasionally. On the other hand, a lifetime plan could feel risky to some, as generative AI continues to evolve and pricing models are still volatile.
Whether these new options succeed may depend on how much users trust OpenAI to deliver long-term value from its tools—without locking them into outdated features.