OpenAI Unveils GPT-4.5: A Surprising AI Model Experience

The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived: ChatGPT is getting a significant upgrade to GPT-4.5.

Yet, while OpenAI describes GPT-4.5 as its “largest and most knowledgeable model,” there are a few limitations that might keep you utilizing its previous versions for a bit longer.

OpenAI Unveils GPT-4.5 With an Enhanced “Natural” Experience

Let’s kick off with the benefits of this GPT update. OpenAI states that GPT-4.5 has a “wider knowledge base” and boasts better alignment with “user intent.” The model has also improved emotional intelligence, making it “ideal for tasks like writing, programming, and addressing everyday challenges,” according to OpenAI.

In comparison to its predecessors, the GPT-4.5 research preview has reduced hallucination rates, with only 37% compared to 60% in GPT-4. This shows a significant improvement in accuracy.

Moreover, OpenAI’s internal testing team characterized GPT-4.5 as “warm, intuitive, and natural,” indicating that this AI model is designed to emphasize personality, empathy, and creativity more than ever.

GPT-4.5 Has Its Limitations

However, OpenAI admits that, despite the progress in GPT-4.5, it’s not necessarily prepared to entirely replace earlier versions.

This new model is more expansive and computationally demanding, which currently makes it costlier to operate. Additionally, users may notice that its responses can be slower than what regular ChatGPT users are used to with versions like GPT-4. The pricing for the GPT-4.5 API reflects these increased computational demands.

But speed isn’t the only concern. An OpenAI document explaining GPT-4.5’s features notes that it “is not a frontier model… its performance is beneath that of o1, o3-mini, and many deep research evaluations.”

As of now, GPT-4.5 lacks the multimodal capabilities that make ChatGPT so versatile, meaning features like Voice Mode, video tools, or screen sharing are not available—at least for the time being. OpenAI has not given a specific timeline for when these features might roll out.

When Will You Be Able to Access ChatGPT GPT-4.5?

Starting February 27, 2025, GPT-4.5 will launch for ChatGPT’s $200 Professional subscription tier. Subscribers at this level can start using GPT-4.5 right away from the model selector. By early March, ChatGPT Plus and Team subscribers will also be able to opt for GPT-4.5, followed by Enterprise and Education subscribers soon after.

It appears that GPT-4.5 is a precursor to GPT-5, which many expect to debut in 2025. The integration of GPT-4.5, GPT o3, o3-mini, and other models could lay the groundwork for GPT-5, which is anticipated to be the first AI system that could genuinely be classified as artificial general intelligence.