Don't Worry About the Vase Podcast GPT 5.1 Follows Custom Instructions and Glazes
Nov 18, 2025
The hosts delve into the intriguing features of GPT-5.1, discussing how its adaptive reasoning takes conversational AI to new heights. They debate whether its warmer tone crosses into 'glazing' territory, questioning genuine empathy versus charm. The introduction of personality presets and custom instructions sparks conversation about user control. Reactions from developers and users reveal a mix of excitement and disappointment, as listeners share concerns about verbosity and loss of creativity. Community backlash highlights the divide between GPT-5.1 and its predecessors.
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Release Emphasizes Usability Over Raw IQ
- OpenAI released GPT-5.1 claiming better instruction-following and adaptive reasoning while keeping price and core intelligence similar to GPT-5.
- The update focuses on conversational tone and customization rather than large capability gains.
Model Routes Its Own Thinking Effort
- GPT-5.1 introduces Instant and Thinking variants that adapt response tone and reasoning depth automatically.
- The model routes thinking effort to spend more time on complex problems and less on simple ones.
Set Clear Custom Instructions
- Use the new preset personalities or custom instructions to tailor ChatGPT's tone to your needs.
- Set explicit preferences to avoid unwanted styles like excessive em-dashes or glazing.