GPT-4.5 Launch by OpenAI: What to Expect

OpenAI is on the brink of introducing GPT-4.5, supported by various indications that this next evolution of their AI model is imminent. Users of the ChatGPT application have recently received notices prompting them to “try the GPT-4.5 research preview,” reinforcing the anticipation of its release.

BleepingComputer reports that the notification mentions, “Pro users now have access to our newest, largest model.” However, selecting the alert does not currently unlock any additional features, implying that OpenAI is finalising the rollout process.

Further fueling the excitement, software engineer Tibor Blaho has shared a screenshot from the ChatGPT beta app on Android that appears to reference GPT-4.5. This follows the earlier comments made by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who indicated that the company would adopt a more transparent approach regarding its development timeline, assuring that GPT-4.5 would launch in “weeks” and GPT-5 would be available within a few months.

Key Features of GPT-4.5

• Codename: “Orion” – As stated by Altman, GPT-4.5 will be the final model lacking chain-of-thought reasoning. Future iterations will feature improved reasoning skills, enabling them to break down complex tasks into step-by-step solutions.
• Subscription Model: Initially, GPT-4.5 will be accessible to ChatGPT Pro users, a premium subscription priced at $200 monthly, providing early access to OpenAI’s cutting-edge AI features. It remains uncertain whether ChatGPT Plus subscribers, who previously enjoyed early access, will also benefit from GPT-4.5.
• A Streamlined Approach: OpenAI aims to simplify its AI model offerings by consolidating updates into a unified experience. This strategy comes in response to previous confusion surrounding multiple versions, including GPT-4o, GPT-40, and the o-series models (o1, o3-mini, and o3-mini-high).

Competitive Landscape for OpenAI

The expected release of GPT-4.5 coincides with an increasing challenge from competitors like xAI’s Grok 3 and DeepSeek’s advanced AI systems. These challengers are rapidly enhancing their functionalities, compelling OpenAI to expedite its development process and retain its leading status in the AI sector.

Altman has also mentioned that GPT-5 will be available for free users upon its launch, sparking discussions about whether OpenAI might also offer GPT-4.5 for free to safeguard its dominant position in the market.

OPENAI ROADMAP UPDATE FOR GPT-4.5 and GPT-5: We aim to improve our communication regarding our planned roadmap, as well as simplifying our product lineup. Our objective is for AI to “just work” for users, acknowledging the complexity that has arisen in our models and offerings.