OpenAI set to launch advanced GPT-5.6 model after national security delay

WEB DESK: OpenAI is poised to publicly launch its most capable artificial intelligence model, GPT-5.6, on Thursday, following a month-long delay requested by the United States government amid escalating national security concerns over the potential misuse of powerful AI technologies.

The launch will feature the flagship GPT-5.6 Sol model, alongside two lower-cost variants, Terra and Luna, according to an announcement by the ChatGPT-maker late on Tuesday.

The rollout had previously been limited to a small group of approved partners after Washington increased scrutiny of advanced AI models over concerns they could be used to launch sophisticated cyberattacks on critical ageing infrastructure.

Geopolitical tech race

The delay highlights the growing competition between the United States and China to lead the global AI race. Washington has stepped up oversight of advanced AI models to prevent rivals such as China and Russia from using the technology for military or intelligence purposes.

At the same time, Chinese authorities have reportedly discussed possible limits on overseas access to the country’s next generation of advanced AI models with leading domestic technology companies.

The move reflects how artificial intelligence has evolved from a commercial technology into a key area of geopolitical competition.

Regulatory hurdles and safeguards

OpenAI is not the only company facing tighter US regulations on advanced AI. Rival Anthropic was recently forced to suspend access to its Mythos 5 and Fable 5 models after a US export control order issued in mid-June.

Restrictions on the Fable 5 model were lifted last week after Anthropic introduced stronger safety measures. However, Mythos 5, a model designed for cybersecurity professionals, remains limited to trusted US organisations because of concerns it could be used to exploit software vulnerabilities.

The Trump administration reportedly approved the wider release of OpenAI’s new AI models after extensive testing and discussions between company executives and government officials. The move is in line with a recent executive order that introduced a voluntary 30-day government review period for advanced AI models before their public launch.

Meanwhile, billionaire Elon Musk said on Wednesday that his AI company, SpaceXAI, would also release its flagship Grok 4.5 model to the public, intensifying competition in the rapidly evolving AI industry.