OpenAI's GPT-4.5 May Launch Next Week, GPT-5 Coming in May

Friday, February 21, 2025

Why it matters:
OpenAI is pushing forward with GPT-4.5 and GPT-5, but despite claims of progress toward AGI, skepticism remains about whether these updates will revolutionize AI usage.

Key Points:

• GPT-4.5 (Orion) Launch:
  OpenAI is expected to release GPT-4.5 next week. This will be its last model before introducing “chain-of-thought” reasoning, which aims to improve complex problem-solving.
  (Source: Gizmodo)

• GPT-5 Release in May:
  OpenAI plans to roll out GPT-5 as early as May. It will feature the o3 reasoning model, enhancing fact-checking capabilities and improving accuracy.
  (Source: Gizmodo)

• Microsoft’s Role:
  Microsoft is set to host both models on its platform and may time GPT-5’s release to align with its Build developer conference on May 22.
  (Source: The Verge)

• Unlimited GPT-5 Access:
  OpenAI CEO Sam Altman confirmed that ChatGPT users will get free unlimited access to GPT-5’s “standard intelligence” setting. However, Plus and Pro subscribers will get access to “higher intelligence” versions.
  (Source: Altman on X)

• AGI Claims and Skepticism:
  OpenAI has hinted at GPT-5 being a step toward artificial general intelligence (AGI), but critics argue this is more marketing than reality. The real question is whether it will create meaningful new AI use cases.
  (Source: Gizmodo)

What’s next:

Expect major AI announcements from OpenAI and Microsoft in the coming months, with GPT-5 positioned as a key milestone for AI development and competition.