OpenAI officially unveiled its next-generation AI model, GPT-5, also referred to as ChatGPT 5, on Thursday night. This new system marks a significant leap from previous iterations, positioning itself as a singular, powerful tool designed to make advanced, PhD-level expertise accessible to all users. Unlike earlier versions of ChatGPT that required manual toggling for deeper reasoning, GPT-5 unifies all capabilities into one streamlined interface, capable of determining when and how to apply complex reasoning on its own.
According to OpenAI, GPT-5 integrates a highly efficient core model for general queries, a more sophisticated reasoning engine dubbed "GPT-5 Thinking" for advanced topics, and an intelligent routing system that selects the appropriate tool based on user input, conversation complexity, and real-time needs. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized that interacting with GPT-5 is akin to speaking with a subject-matter expert in any domain. He likened the technological leap to the transition from standard pixelated smartphone displays to Apple’s Retina Display—an experience that feels both dramatically refined and deeply intuitive.
Beyond its general improvements, GPT-5 sets a new benchmark in the realm of programming. OpenAI claims this version is their most capable coding model to date, showing significant enhancements in areas like frontend development, large-scale debugging, and even design aesthetics. With a single prompt, GPT-5 can generate visually impressive and fully functional websites, applications, or games that align with user intent and design sensibilities.
In addition to software-related tasks, GPT-5 aims to address previous weaknesses such as hallucinations—AI-generated factual inaccuracies. With improved accuracy across the board, GPT-5 demonstrates a 45% reduction in errors during standard responses and an 80% decrease when the system employs its deeper reasoning capabilities. These advancements were validated using anonymized real-world prompts from ChatGPT’s production environment, especially when web browsing features were enabled.
OpenAI also detailed the rollout and pricing structure for GPT-5. The model is being released in three variants: Mini, Regular, and Pro. Users who surpass their usage limits on the Regular model will automatically be shifted to the Mini version. Meanwhile, GPT-5 Pro will be available for a premium monthly subscription of $200. GPT-5 now serves as the default engine within ChatGPT for all signed-in users, replacing previous models including GPT-4o, OpenAI o3, o4-mini, GPT-4.1, and GPT-4.5. Notably, while the AI will autonomously determine when to engage its reasoning functions, Pro users retain the ability to manually switch the system into “thinking mode” for more challenging queries.
Starting today, GPT-5 is rolling out globally to both free and paid users, cementing its place as OpenAI’s most comprehensive and versatile AI model to date.
