OpenAI's recent release of o1 Pro Mode and Sam Altman's bold claim that these are now the "smartest models in the world" has sparked much debate. To provide an impartial assessment, I've conducted a thorough analysis of these models, including benchmark testing, a review of their system card, and an examination of their capabilities in image analysis and abstract reasoning. Pricing and Access As a starting point, it's crucial to understand the pricing structure for o1 and o1 Pro Mode. Access to o1 is included with the existing $20/month tier, while o1 Pro Mode commands a hefty $200/month price…