OpenAI to Consolidate AI Models with GPT-5 Launch

OpenAI has canceled plans to release its o3 model, opting instead for a "simplified" product lineup centered on its upcoming GPT-5 product. The decision, revealed in a post by CEO Sam Altman on X, marks a shift toward integrating multiple AI technologies into a single model for its ChatGPT platform and API.

Initially set for launch in early 2025, o3 was expected to be OpenAI's next major release. As recently as a few weeks ago, OpenAI Chief Product Officer Kevin Weil stated that o3 was on track for a February-March launch. However, OpenAI now confirms that GPT-5 will encompass the capabilities of o3 and other proprietary AI technologies, eliminating the need for a separate release.

"We want to do a better job of sharing our intended roadmap and simplifying our product offerings," Altman wrote in his post. "We want AI to 'just work' for you; we realize how complicated our model and product offerings have gotten. We hate the model picker [in ChatGPT] as much as you do and want to return to magic unified intelligence."

Altman also announced that GPT-5 will offer unlimited chat access at a "standard intelligence setting," subject to "abuse thresholds," once the model becomes widely available. For premium users, ChatGPT Plus subscribers will gain access to a "higher level of intelligence," while ChatGPT Pro users will be able to leverage an "even higher level of intelligence."

The new model will integrate OpenAI's evolving suite of AI tools, including voice capabilities, enhanced search functions, and deep research features. Altman emphasized OpenAI's goal of unifying its AI systems to handle a broad range of tasks efficiently.

Before its GPT-5 debut, OpenAI plans to release GPT-4.5, code-named "Orion," in the coming weeks. This will be OpenAI's last "non-chain-of-thought" model, according to Altman, with future iterations embracing reasoning-based architectures that improve reliability in complex domains like math and physics.

About the Author

John K. Waters is the editor in chief of a number of Converge360.com sites, with a focus on high-end development, AI and future tech. He's been writing about cutting-edge technologies and culture of Silicon Valley for more than two decades, and he's written more than a dozen books. He also co-scripted the documentary film Silicon Valley: A 100 Year Renaissance, which aired on PBS.  He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • A child surrounded by glowing, fluid virtual patterns and holographic shapes, illuminated in a dark gradient environment of blue, purple, and pink.

    ClassVR Gets Expanded VR/AR Content Library

    Avantis Education has announced a new content library for its ClassVR virtual and augmented reality platform. Dubbed Eduverse+, the library features four content suites — EduverseAI, WildWorld, STEAM3D, and CareerHub — that can be tailored to suit a variety of educational levels.

  • DreamBox Math

    Discovery Education Announces Accessibility Enhancements for DreamBox Math

    Discovery Education has updated DreamBox Math, an online math program for K–8 students to supplement core instruction, to improve accessibility for K–5 students, according to a news release. DreamBox Math provides personalized instruction by adapting to individual learners’ responses and providing an engaging, dynamic learning environment.

  • teacher

    6 Policy Recommendations for Adopting AI in the Classroom

    The Southern Regional Education Board's Commission on AI in Education has published six recommendations on adopting artificial intelligence in schools, colleges, and universities. The guidance marks the commission's first release since it was established last February, with more recommendations planned in the coming year.

  • group of elementary school students designing video games on computers in a modern classroom with a teacher, depicted in a geometric and abstract style

    Using Video Game Design to Teach Literacy Skills

    The Max Schoenfeld School, a public school in the Bronx serving one of the poorest communities in the nation, is taking an innovative approach to improving student literacy.