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Update (13 May 2026)

At the end of April OpenAI released their latest reasoning, GPT-5.5, as well as a new image generation model, GPT Image 2. These are both incremental improvements rather than major feature updates. This continues the cadence OpenAI has established of releasing updated models nearly monthly.

For genealogists, the updated image model is especially worth a look. It now can handle image generation with a large amount of detailed text integrated in it, for example, a textbook page, or a two-page spread of a comic book.

In chapter 13 “AI as a Teacher,” on page 101, I discussed the “Study Mode” of ChatGPT and wrote: “Study mode is enabled by clicking the + icon at the lower left of the prompt box, or by entering a forward slash (/) in a new prompt window, and then selecting “Study and lean.” Please note that they have removed this menu item from the +-menu. You will now need to enter a slash (/) into the prompt window to surface a menu that reveals this option.

Update (16 April 2026)

Since the book was published, OpenAI has updated the structure of their subscription plans. They have introduced advertisements into the free plan and added a new “Go” plan at $8/month, also with advertisements, but with higher rate limits than the free plan, but less than $20/month Plus plan which does not have advertising.

Their previous Pro plan, which was $200/month, now comes into two flavors, one at $100/month and one at $200/month. Both give access to the GPT-5.4-Pro model. I think this is more targeted to those using ChatGPT for hard math and science problems, as well as professional programmers. I don’t think the average genealogist would receive a benefit that would justify that expense.

My recommendation remains that the $20/month Plus plan is the best for genealogists who anticipate using ChatGPT on a daily basis, including for non-genealogical tasks. But those just starting off can get a good taste of the product using the Free plan, and now have an additional option with the $8/month Go plan.

A full list of the plans can be found on the OpenAI website here.