OpenAI Just Made ChatGPT Go Free for 1.4 Billion People

OpenAI is doubling down on India's fast-growing AI market with a bold offer: a free year of its ChatGPT Go service for every user in the country starting November 4. The giveaway coincides with the company's first DevDay Exchange in India and marks its most aggressive expansion effort yet in a market of 1.4 billion people. Normally priced at 399 rupees (under $5) per year, ChatGPT Go unlocks higher message limits, image generation, and larger file uploadsan upgrade from the standard free version. The offer could be OpenAI's way of cementing loyalty early in one of the world's most data-rich, English-speaking markets.

Since ChatGPT Go's launch in August, OpenAI has seen paid subscribers in India more than double, with the service quickly gaining traction among professionals and creators. The San Francisco-based startup has already expanded the tier to nearly 90 global markets, but India remains central to its strategy. The country's sheer user scale and data engagement make it a vital testing ground for AI companies seeking both growth and model refinement. OpenAI's statement on Tuesday described India as its second-largest and one of its fastest-growing markets, underscoring how crucial this region could be in the company's global roadmap.

The competitive landscape is heating up fast. Perplexity AI, backed by Bharti Airtel, is offering free access to its premium tier, while Alphabet's Google GOOG has opened Gemini AI Pro free for students. These moves signal a clear battle for India's next wave of digital usersa battle that's as much about data as it is about dominance. OpenAI's latest promotion could be a calculated step to capture both, turning India into a cornerstone of its long-term AI ecosystem and reinforcing its edge in the global generative AI race.