OpenAI launches new GPT-5 model for all ChatGPT users

On Thursday, OpenAI unveiled its latest advancement in artificial intelligence technology with the launch of GPT-5, a powerful large-scale model now accessible to all users, including those on the free tier. The company asserts that GPT-5 is significantly smarter and faster, enhancing its utility in areas such as writing, coding, and healthcare. OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman expressed his excitement by highlighting the stark difference from its predecessor, GPT-4, stating, "I tried going back to GPT-4, and it was quite miserable." The announcement coincides with projections of reaching 700 million weekly active users for ChatGPT this week, as OpenAI explores a potential stock sale valued around $500 billion, as reported by CNBC. One of the notable improvements in GPT-5 is its reduced hallucination rate, meaning it fabricates fewer incorrect answers. OpenAI has conducted extensive safety evaluations during its development, totaling around 5,000 hours of rigorous testing. Instead of simply refusing to engage with potentially risky queries, GPT-5 employs a method called "safe completions," allowing it to provide high-level responses while adhering to safety protocols that prevent harm. Michelle Pokrass, a lead at OpenAI, explained that GPT-5 has been designed to better recognize tasks that cannot be completed, avoid speculation, and articulate its limitations more clearly, thereby reducing unsupported claims compared to earlier models. In a demonstration, OpenAI showcased GPT-5's capability for "vibe coding," where users can create applications based on simple prompts. For instance, when tasked with creating a web application to help English speakers learn French, GPT-5 produced two distinct app designs almost instantaneously, incorporating features such as flashcards and quizzes. While the initial outputs had minor flaws, users can customize the apps further to suit their needs. This launch marks the first time free users will have access to a reasoning model, which performs internal thought processes before responding. Users on the free plan will have access to GPT-5 mini if they reach their usage limits, while Plus users enjoy higher limits, and Pro users receive unlimited access to GPT-5 and its enhanced features. Educational and enterprise users will gain access to GPT-5 a week later. Box, a company specializing in enterprise file management, has been testing GPT-5 and noted its superior performance in complex tasks, particularly in processing intricate math and logic within lengthy documents. CEO Aaron Levie described GPT-5 as a "complete breakthrough," emphasizing its ability to retain and analyze information with advanced reasoning capabilities. OpenAI is also releasing three versions of the model tailored for developers via its API, catering to varying cost and latency requirements. With this launch, OpenAI aims to appeal to a broader consumer base, ensuring interactions with GPT-5 feel more intuitive and human-like. Altman compared GPT-5's capabilities to having a team of Ph.D.-level experts available at all times, stating, "People are limited by ideas, but not really the ability to execute, in many new ways."