I tested GPT-5.2 and the AI model's mixed results raise tough questions

Subjected to my battery of 10 text tests and 4 image challenges, OpenAI's latest model barely edged out GPT-5.1. What are Plus subscribers actually paying for?

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• GPT-5.2 barely outperforms GPT-5.1 despite requiring a Plus subscription
• Strong writing and analysis contrast with a disappointing coding regression.
• New brevity and go signal behavior may frustrate professional users.

OpenAI has released its latest ChatGPT model, GPT-5.2. According to the company, it's the "most capable model series yet for professional knowledge work."

Since the generative AI boom began in 2023, I've run a series of repeatable tests on new products and releases. ZDNET regularly tests the programming ability of chatbots, their overall performance, and how various AI content detectors perform.

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