Glitches disrupt OpenAI's free ChatGPT Go launch in India
What's the story
OpenAI has announced a year-long free offer for its ChatGPT Go plan, starting today. The promotion is available to all Indian users who sign up during the limited period. However, many users have reported issues while trying to avail the offer, saying their payment attempts are failing even after entering correct card or UPI details.
Verification glitch
Upgrade process is simple but many users facing issues
Notably, even though the upgrade process is simple, many users have reported that their transactions get stuck at the payment stage and eventually show a "Payment failed" error. OpenAI has not yet commented on the matter but these failures are likely due to high traffic and an influx of subscription attempts after the promotion's launch.
Requirement
Valid payment method mandatory for account verification
It's important to note that a valid payment method is mandatory to avail the free ChatGPT Go offer. This is because OpenAI uses it for account verification purposes. The company had announced the move last week, saying users who choose the Go plan from the ChatGPT upgrade menu will get a year of free access.
Plan benefits
Go plan cheaper than Plus tier
The Go plan, which is cheaper than the Plus tier, offers advanced features like faster responses, higher message limits, image generation capabilities, and file upload options. The move comes as India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing markets for ChatGPT with paid subscriptions reportedly doubling within a month of the service's August launch.
Market strategy
How to avail ChatGPT Go free offer
OpenAI said the free Go rollout shows its appreciation for India's "enthusiasm and creativity," and fits into its wider strategy to strengthen its presence in the country. To avail the offer, users need to select the Go plan from their ChatGPT account and verify their payment method through a credit/debit card or UPI.