OpenAI releases GPT-4o, a faster model that’s free for all ChatGPT users

OpenAI launches GPT-4o, a faster, free multimodal model for ChatGPT with improved capabilities.

: OpenAI announced GPT-4o, an enhanced version of GPT-4, promising faster performance and multimodal capabilities in text, vision, and audio for free. The model supports real-time interactions and is available to developers at reduced costs. CEO Sam Altman reflects on OpenAI's shifted focus from open-sourcing to providing APIs for developers to innovate.

OpenAI has introduced GPT-4o, an update to its GPT-4 model which underpins their flagship product, ChatGPT. According to OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, GPT-4o offers significant improvements in speed and capabilities across various modes of communication including text, vision, and audio. The announcement made during a livestream indicates this version will be accessible for free to all ChatGPT users, with paid users receiving additional capacity. Developers are particularly catered for, with API access made more affordable and efficient compared to its predecessor, GPT-4 Turbo. This model is described as natively multimodal, meaning it can handle multiple forms of input seamlessly.

As part of the launch, new features in ChatGPT’s voice mode were highlighted, suggesting a move towards more interactive and responsive AI applications. This update positions OpenAI's technology as more versatile and user-friendly, capable of acting as a sophisticated voice assistant capable of understanding and responding to the environment in real time. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman used the occasion to discuss the organization's direction, highlighting a transition from an initial focus on open-sourcing their technology to now enabling third-party creation through paid APIs. This shift underscores OpenAI's strategy of broadening the applicability and accessibility of their models, encouraging developers and businesses to innovate on top of their platforms.

The timing of the GPT-4o release strategically precedes Google I/O, signaling OpenAI's ambition to influence the AI landscape. While addressing OpenAI's evolving approach, Altman emphasized the potential of GPT-4o and similar models to generate significant benefits globally, despite criticism regarding the company's move away from open-source practices. This release marks a significant step in making advanced AI more accessible and adaptable, suggesting a future where AI can more intimately and interactively assist in various domains, paving the way for further innovation and integration into daily technology use.

GPT-4oOpenAImultimodal