5.6 availability after holding back release
9to5Mac • • business
Key Points:
- OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.6 at the end of June but delayed its public release due to a U.S. government review of the new AI models.
- GPT-5.6 includes three versions: Sol (flagship model), Terra (balanced for everyday work), and Luna (fast and affordable), introducing a new naming scheme based on capability tiers.
- Access to GPT-5.6 was initially limited to a small group of trusted partners at the U.S. government's request, marking a change from OpenAI's usual release approach.
- OpenAI has now confirmed that GPT-5.6 models will be available to customers starting Thursday, July 9, with global preview access expanding immediately.
