A reported UK ChatGPT Plus deal has sparked debate after technology secretary Peter Kyle met OpenAI chief Sam Altman. The talks highlighted how Britain is considering bold steps to integrate advanced AI into everyday life.
According to reports, Mr Altman suggested giving all UK residents access to ChatGPT’s premium version. The premium service normally costs $20 each month and offers faster responses along with early access to features. The idea of a nationwide rollout, however, carried a potential £2bn price tag.
Sources told The Guardian that the suggestion surfaced during broader conversations about AI collaboration. Mr Kyle traveled to San Francisco earlier this year and spoke with Mr Altman multiple times. Observers say the discussion never reached serious negotiation, but it reflected growing interest in artificial intelligence inside government.
Mr Kyle has consistently praised AI tools since becoming technology secretary. He admitted earlier this year that he used AI for policy advice. He also relied on it for communication strategies and even asked the software about business adoption challenges.
During one exchange, Mr Kyle asked ChatGPT which podcasts would help him reach the broadest audience. He also used it to explain complex terms such as “quantum” and “digital inclusion.” His openness about using AI personally illustrates his belief in the technology’s benefits.
In July, the UK government signed a non-binding agreement with OpenAI. That framework allows public services to test and explore the technology. Areas under review include defence, education, security, and the justice system. Critics argue that giving private firms access to government data raises concerns about privacy and control.
At the same time, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has pushed an ambitious AI agenda. In recent remarks, he claimed AI could deliver £45bn in efficiency savings. He argued that AI could streamline or even replace some civil service functions. According to him, this transformation represents a “golden opportunity” to raise living standards and drive growth.
Sir Keir promised to embed AI expertise inside every government department. Teams will work directly with civil servants to make the state more innovative. He described AI as a once-in-a-generation chance to improve public services.
Despite the buzz, the government downplayed the reported £2bn proposal. A spokesperson said ministers are focused on infrastructure, security testing, and partnerships with leading AI firms. They insisted that no agreement for a national premium rollout exists.
Still, the idea of a UK ChatGPT Plus deal shows how seriously Britain is weighing AI adoption. While some officials stress caution, others believe premium access for every citizen could accelerate innovation. The debate reflects a wider question: how far should governments go to embed private AI tools into national life?
For now, the UK ChatGPT Plus deal remains a concept rather than a contract. But its discussion signals that the future of AI in Britain is moving quickly, and the government appears eager to seize momentum.
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