The Vibes-Based Pricing of 'Pro' AI Software
Chatbot premium subscriptions such as ChatGPT Pro and Claude Max currently cost around $200, but it's unclear why. Hosts Lauren Goode and Michael Calore speak with staff writer Reece Rogers to discover what drives these models, which AI companies bill as their most powerful, and whether they could become essential in our future.
Follow Michael Calore on Bluesky [@snackfight](https://bsky.app/profile/snackfight.bsky.social), Lauren Goode [@laurengoode](https://bsky.app/profile/laurengoode.bsky.social), and Reece Rogers [@thiccreese](https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:eewrv6igoxnyqfo3ftj6tjc7). Write to uncannyvalley@wired.com for more.
**Related Articles:**
- Why Do Some AI Chatbot Subscriptions Cost More Than $200?
- Cheap AI Tools May Come at a Big Long-Term Cost
How to Listen
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Transcript
Michael Calore: Hey, this is Mike. Before we start, exciting news! We’re doing a live show in San Francisco on September 9th with KQED. Lauren and I will chat with our editor-in-chief, Katie Drummond, plus a special guest. Use this link to grab a ticket. Can't wait to see you there. Hey, Lauren. How are you?
Lauren Goode: Hi. What's your name again? You've been gone for long.
Michael Calore: I've been snorkeling on the moon. Yes.
Lauren Goode: I missed you a lot.
Michael Calore: I missed you too.
Lauren Goode: Thanks.
For the transcript’s full extent, listen to the episode. Dive into discussions about AI's pricing model and potential impact.
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**Discussion Highlights:**
Michael Calore: So, Reece, what is the craziest request processed with a pro-level AI subscription?
Reece Rogers: Using OpenAI's $200 Pro plan, I tested whether ChatGPT would shop on an adult website and its picks. No toys ordered though.
More Insights: Discussions include expensive chatbot subscriptions, the AI services behind them, and the underlying factors influencing their pricing.
**Tags:** uncanny valley podcast, podcasts, artificial intelligence, chatbots, OpenAI, ChatGPT, Anthropic
