OpenAI Launches GPT-5.2 Amid Competitive Tech Landscape

OpenAI has unveiled GPT-5.2, the latest iteration in its Generative Pre-trained Transformer series, introducing three specialized versions: Instant, Thinking, and Pro. This release follows a "code red" directive from CEO Sam Altman, initiated in early December to accelerate development in response to competition from Google's Gemini 3.

GPT-5.2 offers enhanced general intelligence, improved coding capabilities, and better handling of long-context understanding. It is designed to provide more economic value by excelling in tasks such as spreadsheet creation, presentation building, and complex multi-step project management.

The three versions cater to different user needs:

• Instant: Optimized for speed, suitable for routine queries like information-seeking, writing, and translation.

• Thinking: Excels at complex structured work, including coding, analyzing long documents, math, and planning.

• Pro: Aimed at delivering maximum accuracy and reliability for difficult problems.

GPT-5.2 is rolling out to ChatGPT users on paid plans and is available to developers via the API. Previous models like GPT-5.1, GPT-5, and GPT-4.1 will remain accessible for API users.

In conjunction with the launch, Disney announced a $1 billion investment in OpenAI and will allow the use of characters from its Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel franchises in OpenAI's Sora AI video generator.

Early user feedback on GPT-5.2 has been mixed, with some describing it as overly corporate and lacking personality compared to previous versions. OpenAI acknowledges these concerns and is committed to ongoing improvements.

This development marks a significant step in the AI landscape, reflecting OpenAI's efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving field.