OpenAI’s GPT-4.5 Set for Imminent Launch as Users Spot Early Signs

OpenAI is on the verge of unveiling GPT-4.5, with several indicators suggesting that the next-generation AI model is closer to release than ever before. Recently, ChatGPT users reported receiving notifications inviting them to “try the GPT-4.5 research preview,” further confirming the model’s imminent rollout.

Leaked Hints and Beta Testing Indications

According to a report , the in-app notification also states:

“Pro users now have access to our newest, largest model.”

However, when users clicked on the alert, no new features were activated, implying that OpenAI is still in the final stages of testing and deployment.

Adding to the anticipation, software engineer Tibor Blaho shared a screenshot of ChatGPT’s beta app on Android, showing code references to GPT-4.5. This discovery aligns with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s recent statements, where he promised greater transparency about the company’s AI development roadmap. Altman had previously hinted that GPT-4.5 would arrive in "weeks" while GPT-5 is scheduled for release within months.

What We Know About GPT-4.5 So Far

Codename: Orion

GPT-4.5 has reportedly been internally codenamed "Orion." According to OpenAI, this version will be the final AI model before the introduction of “chain-of-thought reasoning”, which will significantly enhance problem-solving abilities by breaking down complex tasks into multi-step logical solutions.

GPT-4.5 Subscription Model & Pricing

• GPT-4.5 will be available first to ChatGPT Pro users, a premium-tier subscription priced at $200 per month.

• It is still unclear whether ChatGPT Plus users (who previously had priority access to new AI models) will also get early entry to GPT-4.5.

A Unified and Simplified AI Model Offering

OpenAI has also announced its plan to streamline AI model offerings by integrating updates into a single, unified experience. This decision follows confusion surrounding multiple versions of the AI, including:

• GPT-4o

• GPT-40

• O-series models (o1, o3-mini, o3-mini-high)

By consolidating its AI models, OpenAI aims to improve accessibility, performance, and clarity for users.

The Competitive AI Race: OpenAI vs. Rivals

GPT-4.5 is launching at a critical time for OpenAI, as competition in the AI space heats up. Several rival AI companies are rapidly enhancing their models, putting pressure on OpenAI to stay ahead.

Key Competitors Gaining Ground:

• xAI’s Grok 3 (Elon Musk’s AI company)

• DeepSeek’s Advanced AI models

• Google Gemini and Anthropic’s Claude AI

With these new players introducing faster, more efficient AI models, OpenAI is under pressure to ensure GPT-4.5 delivers breakthrough improvements.

What About GPT-5? Will It Be Free for Users?

In another exciting revelation, Altman confirmed that GPT-5 will be made available to free users upon its release. This has led to speculation that OpenAI might extend similar access to GPT-4.5, possibly allowing a limited free-tier rollout to maintain market dominance.

Conclusion

As OpenAI gears up for the GPT-4.5 launch, signs from ChatGPT notifications, beta code references, and CEO Sam Altman’s statements suggest the update is just weeks away. With AI competition growing, GPT-4.5 will need to deliver enhanced capabilities, efficiency, and improved user experience to maintain OpenAI’s leadership in the industry.

The upcoming official announcement from OpenAI is expected to provide a clearer roadmap for GPT-4.5’s availability, features, and pricing. Until then, the AI community is eagerly waiting for the next big leap in artificial intelligence.