ChatGPT Free in 2026: GPT-5.6 Luna, Ads, & Limits

As of August 2026, free ChatGPT accounts will be limited to using the GPT-5.6 Luna model. OpenAI made a change allowing unlimited text chats for free and Go accounts starting the week of August 10. However, other usage forms, like image generation and file uploads, will still have limits. Free accounts can only use one reasoning mode and have a 500MB limit for their file library. The updated voice mode is available, but defaults to a smaller model. Free users can also access Codex and Work tools, but usage is limited. OpenAI doesn't share exact limits publicly, but users can check their remaining weekly limit in the Settings menu. Free users may also see ads in a "sponsored" section below the chatbot's response. This matters because it clarifies what features will remain free versus those requiring a subscription.