OpenAI is set to unveil a suite of new AI models, including a revamped version of its flagship GPT-4o model, expected to be branded as GPT-4.1, according to sources familiar with the company’s plans. The upcoming rollout is likely to feature a range of new models, including GPT-4.1 mini, GPT-4.1 nano, and advanced reasoning models codenamed o3 and o4 mini.
What’s Coming: GPT-4.1 and Beyond
GPT-4.1 will build on the capabilities of GPT-4o, OpenAI’s multimodal model introduced last year that could reason across text, audio, and vision in real-time. According to sources, GPT-4.1 is expected to offer improved performance, speed, and accuracy.
In addition to the flagship release, OpenAI is preparing smaller, more efficient variants:
- GPT-4.1 mini
- GPT-4.1 nano
These versions are likely optimized for faster processing and potentially lower hardware requirements, making them more accessible for a wider range of applications.
New Reasoning Models: o3 and o4 Mini
OpenAI is also planning to release two new reasoning-focused models:
- o3, a more advanced reasoning model
- o4 mini, along with variants like o4 mini high
These models were recently discovered in the ChatGPT web interface by AI engineer Tibor Blaho, indicating their launch is imminent. Sources say both could be released as soon as next week, barring any last-minute changes to the schedule.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman teased an “exciting feature” coming soon via X (formerly Twitter), though it’s unclear whether it relates directly to GPT-4.1 or the o-series models.
Altman also cautioned earlier this month that customers should expect delays, performance issues, and slow service as OpenAI deals with ongoing capacity constraints. In fact, demand for advanced features like image generation in ChatGPT’s free tier has led to rate limits and GPU strain, with Altman joking that “our GPUs are melting.”
These capacity issues may also affect the timing of GPT-4.1’s official launch, with some internal sources suggesting delays are still possible.
What to Expect Next
OpenAI has yet to confirm the official launch date for GPT-4.1 or the o-series models. However, if the schedule holds, we could see a major wave of AI model updates within the next week updates that may significantly enhance the ChatGPT experience across devices and use cases.
