OpenAI is steering ChatGPT users toward more paid usage

Your ability to share or cycle through multiple ChatGPT paid accounts on a single device is now blocked.

OpenAI has implemented new restrictions on ChatGPT's paid tiers, limiting the number of subscriptions that can be linked to a single payment card or device. Users will encounter a "Device limit reached" message if they attempt to create new subscriptions after hitting these caps. These limits apply to various paid plans like ChatGPT Go, Plus, and Pro tiers, but not to free accounts or business-focused plans. The changes appear aimed at users who previously shared or switched between multiple paid accounts on one device to maximize usage. OpenAI is now directing these users towards purchasing additional credits or usage resets, which are generally more expensive than simply subscribing to another plan.

This policy shift from OpenAI suggests a strategic move towards prioritizing direct revenue generation over user acquisition through shared or discounted access. By capping simultaneous subscriptions per payment method and device, OpenAI is encouraging users to either purchase more expensive credit packs or accept higher per-use costs. This aligns with a broader industry trend where companies are refining monetization strategies as the initial hype around AI adoption matures, focusing on extracting more value from existing user bases.

The restrictions directly impact individuals who had devised workarounds to access advanced features at a lower cost, forcing them to either pay more through credits or forgo the enhanced capabilities. This could lead to a bifurcation in user experience, with heavy users facing increased expenses, while casual users remain unaffected. Businesses and educational institutions with volume licenses are unaffected, indicating a targeted approach to individual and small-scale power users.