ChatGPT – Extended thinking (gpt 5.5) doesn’t think for very long?

Exploring the Differences in Extended Thinking Capabilities Between GPT-4.5 and GPT-5.5

As advancements in artificial intelligence continue to evolve, users often notice variations in how different versions of models perform, particularly in tasks requiring extended reasoning or “thinking time.” Recently, some users have observed noteworthy differences between GPT-4.5 and GPT-5.5, especially concerning the duration and quality of the model’s reasoning processes.

Performance of GPT-4.5 with Extended Thinking

Previous iterations equipped with extended thinking capabilities, such as GPT-4.5, typically allowed for significant processing time—often ranging from 8 to 10 minutes. During this period, the model engaged in in-depth analysis, leading to outputs that were generally of high quality and depth. Such prolonged reasoning periods enabled the model to delve into complex topics, synthesize information effectively, and produce comprehensive responses.

Noticing Changes in GPT-5.5

In contrast, the latest version, GPT-5.5, appears to have a markedly reduced reasoning window when operating in an extended thinking mode. Users report that the maximum thinking time rarely exceeds two minutes. The outputs, while still acceptable, tend to lack the depth and “umph” found in earlier versions. For example, users have noticed that:

• The reasoning process in GPT-5.5 is significantly quicker.
• The depth of analysis correlates with the shorter duration, sometimes resulting in more superficial responses.
• Performance of associated tools like Codex remains satisfactory—particularly when set to medium mode—which matches previous high-level qualities, though lower settings sometimes feel less effective.

Is This Expected?

It’s natural for users to question whether these observations are typical across the platform. Some suggest that variations might stem from differences in deployment environments, resource allocation, or recent updates aimed at optimizing response times. Others wonder if the changes are intentional modifications in model design to prioritize response speed over depth.

Conclusion and User Experience

While the shorter reasoning times in GPT-5.5 may enhance user experience by providing quicker responses, they could come at the expense of the depth and richness of the generated content. As AI models continue to evolve, balancing speed and quality remains a key challenge.

It would be beneficial for users to share their experiences and feedback with platform developers to better understand these differences and contribute to improving future iterations. Whether you’re noticing similar trends or have insights to share, your input can help shape the development of more sophisticated and balanced AI tools.

Final Thoughts

The landscape of AI language models is dynamic and continually improving. Monitoring these changes and understanding their implications is essential for users aiming to leverage these tools effectively. If you experience similar shifts in model performance, consider adjusting your prompts or settings, and stay engaged with community discussions to stay informed about the latest updates.

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Have you noticed differences in your model’s reasoning capabilities across versions? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.