OpenAI To Make GPT-5.6 Available For Everyone On July 9
Credit: OpenAI
OpenAI announced that it will publicly launch its new GPT-5.6 model series, consisting of three variants—Sol, Luna, and Terra—on July 9. The company has already begun expanding preliminary access to the models globally following an initial limited launch to a small group of vetted partners in late June.
The US and China are racing to develop advanced AI models, which experts believe could accelerate and simplify cyberattacks in sectors dependent on complex, interconnected, and often legacy technology systems. Washington has tightened controls over the release of advanced AI models to prevent potential adversaries from weaponizing them. Chinese authorities have also met with leading Chinese tech companies to discuss restricting foreign access to advanced Chinese models, including those yet to be released.
The Trump administration has approved the general release of GPT-5.6, following additional testing and meetings between company and government officials. OpenAI will release the most powerful GPT-5.6 model, Sol, as well as cheaper versions, Terra and Luna, the company announced on its social media account X. Shortly thereafter, Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and its SpaceXAI subsidiary, announced that the company would be releasing its advanced model, Grok 4.5, to the public.
Access costs vary depending on the version. Sol costs $5 per million input tokens and $30 per million output tokens. Terra costs $2.50 per million input tokens and $15 per million output tokens, while Luna costs $1 and $6, respectively. Tokens are used as units of text processing by the model: the larger the input and output data, the higher the computation cost.
