Javier Pastor
Senior WriterComputer scientist turned tech journalist. I've written about almost everything related to technology, but I specialize in hardware, operating systems and cryptocurrencies. I like writing about tech so much that I do it both for Xataka and Incognitosis, my personal blog.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently announced the company’s future plans. The announcement simplifies OpenAI’s roadmap, unifies its proposals and defines the future of ChatGPT.
One GPT-5 to rule them all. Compared to GPT-4.5, which apparently will be somewhat weak, Altman described GPT-5 as a “metamodel” designed to integrate multiple capabilities and adapt to users’ needs. “These models will incorporate voice, canvas, search, deep research, and more,” Altman explained, consolidating various services and options that are now partially scattered.
You ask, GPT-5 will decide how to answer. Altman said a primary goal is to unify OpenAI’s models by creating systems that can use all available tools, know when to process information deeply and be useful for a broad range of tasks. In other words, GPT-5 will determine the best capability to use, eliminating the need for users to choose from a growing set of OpenAI services.
“Free”—if you use it sparingly. Altman explained that free ChatGPT users will have unlimited access to GPT-5 in its “standard intelligence setting”—essentially its basic mode. While sufficient for many, the “free” model likely deserves those quotes. OpenAI may incorporate ads into responses, a model that has worked for Google for 25 years. The question is whether OpenAI can implement this approach successfully.
If you want the best GPT-5, you’ll have to pay. Altman emphasized that users who subscribe to ChatGPT Plus or Pro will access a more advanced version of GPT-5. The strategy is clear: premium features come at a cost. The $200-a-month subscription may mark the beginning of price increases OpenAI needs to sustain its business.
OpenAI needs revenue. The company shared profitability estimates months ago, projecting it will continue to burn cash at an aggressive rate but expects to turn a profit for the first time in 2029.
What about Operator? Altman didn’t mention Operator, his AI agent. Will it be part of GPT-5 or remain a separate service? OpenAI may develop it as a standalone platform, but AI agents remain a key area for monetization. If they work well, they could convince users to pay for them.
Image | Dima Solomin (Unsplash)
View 0 comments