OpenAI Temporarily Suspends $200 ChatGPT Pro Registrations Amidst Soaring Demand for GPT-6 Astra
OpenAI has temporarily halted new registrations and upgrades for its premium $200-per-month ChatGPT Pro plan. This decision comes in response to an overwhelming demand for its recently launched GPT-6 Astra model, which is putting a significant strain on the company’s infrastructure.
The Astra model, introduced on September 3, 2026, was hailed by OpenAI President Greg Brockman as a “generational leap” marking the commencement of the “AGI era”. This model is capable of operating directly within software, using computers on behalf of users, and is specifically designed for tasks such as coding, research, cybersecurity, and professional work. The company confirmed the suspension of its premium plan on September 10, stating that it applies to users on Free, Go, Plus, and Pro $100 tiers who are seeking to upgrade.
Thibault Sottiaux, OpenAI’s head of product, announced the suspension, stating that the demand for Astra is “truly unprecedented”. He further noted that the Pro plan exerts the most significant pressure on the company’s systems. CEO Sam Altman admitted that the rollout was less than smooth, with some paying users unable to immediately access the model.
Despite the suspension, existing Pro subscribers will continue to have full access. Lower-tier API, Go, and Plus plans are still open for registration, with Astra available at reduced usage limits. While OpenAI has not provided a timeline for the reopening of the $200 Pro tier, it has arranged for substantial new capacity, including 10 GW of Nvidia systems and a 6-GW AMD GPU agreement, to address the current deficit.