OpenAI to Unify AI Models with GPT-5 Launch

  • By John K. Waters
  • 02/18/25

OpenAI has scrapped 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. According to Altman, this will be OpenAI's last "non-chain-of-thought" model, 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].

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