Skip to main content

ChatGPT Pro Max? OpenAI's Secret Tier Could Cost $600 a Month

A Hidden Clue in the Code

Developer Tibor Blaho was poking around ChatGPT's web source code when he spotted something odd: the word "PROMAX". That little string of letters suggests OpenAI might be cooking up a new subscription tier—one that sits above the current $200-per-month Pro plan. And according to Blaho's guess, it could cost anywhere from $500 to $600 a month (roughly 3,359 to 4,030 RMB). If that pans out, it would instantly become one of the priciest AI subscriptions on the market.

But hold on. OpenAI hasn't said a word about this. The company hasn't confirmed that the code even points to a real product. So the name, the features, the final price—all of it is still up in the air.

Why the $200 Tier Paused—and What Comes Next

OpenAI has been tinkering with ChatGPT's pricing for years. First came Plus for individuals. Then the $200 Pro tier. Then enterprise and team plans. The payment ladder was already pretty tall. But just recently, the $200 Pro plan quietly closed its doors to new users. The official reason? Reduce system load and keep things smooth for everyone else.

Now, with "PROMAX" popping up in the code, it looks like OpenAI might be adding another rung—way up high. Blaho's speculation puts the monthly fee at $500 to $600, which would dwarf any existing personal subscription. If that's true, OpenAI is essentially creating a VIP lounge for heavy users who are willing to pay for the fastest response times and the most computing power. It's also a clever way to squeeze more revenue out of each customer.

What This Means for You

Before you start budgeting for a $600 AI habit, remember: this is all just a signal from the source code. No official announcement, no confirmed features, no final price. We don't even know if it'll actually be called Pro Max.

For most people, the practical options remain the same: the current Plus plan, or the temporarily closed Pro. Even if this top-tier plan does launch, it'll likely be a niche product for a handful of power users or teams. It won't change the basic payment choices available to the general public.

So keep your wallet closed for now. But keep an eye on OpenAI—they clearly aren't done experimenting with how much people will pay for the best AI has to offer.

Key Points:

  • Developer Tibor Blaho found "PROMAX" in ChatGPT's web code, hinting at a new top-tier subscription.
  • The rumored price: $500–$600 per month, far above the current $200 Pro plan.
  • OpenAI recently paused new sign-ups for the $200 Pro tier, citing system load.
  • No official confirmation yet—name, features, and pricing could all change.
  • For average users, existing Plus and Pro plans remain the realistic options.