X is testing a free version of AI chatbot Grok | TechCrunch
Nov 11, 2024 - techcrunch.com
Social network X is reportedly preparing to offer its AI chatbot Grok, developed by Elon Musk's xAI, to free users. The chatbot, which was previously exclusive to premium users, has been spotted in certain regions, with TechCrunch confirming tests for free users in New Zealand. The free version of Grok has usage limits, including a maximum of 10 queries per two hours for the Grok-2 model and 20 queries for the Grok-2 mini model, along with three image analysis questions per day. Users must have an account at least seven days old with a linked phone number to access the free version.
The move to open Grok to free users is seen as a strategy by xAI to expand its userbase and accelerate the feedback cycle for its products. This could help the company compete with other models in the market such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Last month, it was reported that xAI was in discussions to raise several billion dollars at a $40 billion valuation.
Key takeaways:
Social network X is testing access to its AI chatbot Grok for free users, previously it was only available to premium users.
The free version of Grok has been made available to users in certain regions, including New Zealand.
There are usage limits for free users: 10 queries per two hours with the Grok-2 model, 20 queries per two hours with the Grok-2 mini model, and three image analysis questions per day.
xAI, the company behind Grok, is possibly looking to expand its userbase and gather faster feedback by opening up Grok to free users.
