ChatGPT-5 Rollout Proceeds in Stages, Leaving Some Users Awaiting Access

OpenAI has launched its latest iteration of the ChatGPT language model, designated GPT-5, which the company asserts represents a significant advancement in speed and capabilities. However, some users are currently experiencing delays in accessing the new technology. Initial enthusiasm among those anticipating immediate availability has been tempered by reports that the interface remains displaying the previous generation, GPT-4.

According to OpenAI, GPT-5 is being distributed to all ChatGPT subscribers incrementally. This phased deployment approach is a standard practice employed by technology firms to regulate server load and resolve potential issues before broadening access on a larger scale. CEO Sam Altman has characterized the upgrade as transformative, drawing an analogy to the leap in display quality seen with Apple’s Retina displays.

Users subscribing to the free tier of ChatGPT will be able to utilize GPT-5 within defined limits; exceeding these thresholds will trigger automatic reversion to a streamlined version. Developers seeking programmatic access can now leverage GPT-5 through OpenAI’s API, which is offered in three distinct variants: GPT-5, GPT-5 mini, and GPT-5 nano, catering to varied computational requirements.