OpenAI to Delay GPT-5.6 Release at Trump Administration’s Request
4 verified4 unconfirmed1 contested
The Trump administration has reportedly asked OpenAI to release its next major AI model, GPT-5.6, in a limited preview form rather than to the general public, citing safety and security concerns. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman informed employees this week that the government will approve customer access on a case-by-case basis during the preview period. The request marks a shift for the administration, which had previously signaled a hands-off approach to AI regulation. Both sources cite a report by The Information as the basis for the story. The administration has also recently taken steps to increase federal oversight of powerful AI models. The move comes amid ongoing debate about the risks of advanced AI tools being used by malicious actors.
What’s verified
The Trump administration asked OpenAI to stagger the release of its GPT-5.6 model, delaying a broad public rollout.
OpenAI will initially release GPT-5.6 in a limited preview form with the government approving customer access case by case.
CEO Sam Altman told employees about the arrangement during a company meeting this week.
The administration previously indicated it would take a hands-off approach to AI but has recently pushed for federal oversight.
Where accounts differ
The two sources offer different accounts of the administration’s treatment of rival AI company Anthropic. One source states that Anthropic voluntarily limited the release of its Claude Mythos model through a partner program called Project Glasswing. The other source states that the administration issued an ultimatum requiring Anthropic to suspend access to its Mythos 5 and Fable 5 models and imposed an export control directive barring foreign nationals from accessing the technology.
Not yet confirmed
The specific government agencies involved in the request are reported by only one source as the Office of the National Cyber Director and the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
The existence of a recent executive order on AI oversight is mentioned by only one source.
The timeline for a broader release after the preview period is reported by only one source as “a couple of weeks later.”
The exact terms of the administration’s actions toward Anthropic are not corroborated across sources.
Key figures
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI
Sources: TechCrunch, The Verge
