Highlights
- OpenAI is changing how ChatGPT and Codex subscribers access advanced AI features.
- The December update introduces a new approach to managing usage across its subscription plans.
- The policy has sparked criticism over its potential impact on ChatGPT's flexibility and user experience.
OpenAI will introduce a shared usage allowance for ChatGPT and Codex across its Plus, Pro, and Business subscriptions starting in December 2026. The change will bring both services under token-based tracking as the company integrates ChatGPT Work's agentic capabilities into its main ChatGPT experience.
How the Shared Usage Allowance Will Work
Advanced models and complex tasks will consume more tokens, while instant chat will remain exempt from the shared allowance.
Subscribers can monitor their remaining usage and reset times under Settings → Usage. Once they reach their limit, they can wait for a reset, upgrade their subscription, or purchase credits to continue using eligible features.
OpenAI expects most users will not need to wait for resets more frequently than they currently do. The company has not disclosed exact token allocations or a specific December rollout date.
Why OpenAI's Shared Usage Limits Are Drawing Criticism
The announcement has prompted criticism over the introduction of a shared usage meter.
Tech commentator and software development observer Mark Valorian (@markvalorian) criticized the change on X, arguing that it could undermine the unrestricted experience that made ChatGPT appealing. He described the platform as an "all-you-can-think buffet" for research, experimentation, and exploration, where users could explore ideas without constantly monitoring their consumption.
Valorian clarified that his concern was not primarily financial.
He pointed out that purchasing a separate $20 USD ChatGPT subscription while reserving his existing usage for Codex would still be affordable. Instead, he argued, that having to optimize requests, track usage, and schedule work around reset times could discourage spontaneous exploration.
He also suggested three possible reasons behind OpenAI's decision: encouraging additional usage, generating more revenue, or addressing users who take advantage of its existing allowances. However, OpenAI has not confirmed these as the reasons behind the policy change.
The change could affect how subscribers use advanced AI models, making them more cautious about experimenting with ideas as they monitor their remaining usage allowance.
