OpenAI announces GPT-6 Astra and says it can use computers well

In short: OpenAI says its new AI model, GPT-6 Astra, is better at using a computer and will start rolling out to paid customers soon.

What happened

OpenAI announced a new AI model called GPT-6 Astra. The company says it is especially strong at navigating computers and web browsers, writing software, and solving hard math problems.

OpenAI plans to make GPT-6 Astra available to paid customers in the coming days. It will start with enterprise customers in its Daybreak early access program, then expand to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers. OpenAI did not say if free ChatGPT users will get access.

OpenAI says GPT-6 Astra can handle common online tasks faster than the average person in its tests, like booking DMV appointments, searching job listings, and looking for apartments. These are the kinds of tasks that often trip up “computer use” AI systems, which try to click buttons, fill out forms, and move through websites like a human would.

Why it matters

If these claims hold up, more people and businesses may start using AI to do real work inside apps and websites, not just answer questions. It is like having a very fast assistant who can take over the keyboard and mouse for routine chores.

OpenAI also says safety is getting harder as models get more capable. Its chief scientist said the company is watching the model’s “chain-of-thought” (an internal scratchpad the AI uses to work through problems) to check that it behaves safely, but that this kind of monitoring may become more difficult over time.

Source: Wired