OpenAI, the company behind the popular ChatGPT, is reportedly considering charging much higher fees for access to its next-generation AI models. These new models include “Strawberry,” a reasoning model, and “Orion,” a possible successor to GPT-4o. The rumoured price could be as high as $2,000, though it’s unclear over what period this cost would apply.
Currently, users can access OpenAI’s latest model, GPT-4o, through ChatGPT Premium, which costs $20 per month. This fee allows subscribers to use the most advanced version of ChatGPT available today. However, as OpenAI continues to develop more sophisticated AI models, the cost of accessing these advanced tools might rise significantly.
### The Next Wave of AI Innovation
In July, Bloomberg reported that OpenAI has outlined five stages of AI innovation. The first stage includes chatbots like GPT-4o, which are already widely used. The second stage, which OpenAI is currently working on, involves creating “reasoners.” These are AI models that can solve complex problems through a multi-step reasoning process, making them more capable than current models, especially in tasks like complex math problem-solving.
One such reasoning model, codenamed “Strawberry,” is in development and could be released as soon as this fall. Strawberry is expected to be a major step forward in AI technology, potentially allowing for more advanced and accurate problem-solving capabilities.
### What is Orion?
In addition to Strawberry, OpenAI is also working on a new large language model, known by the codename “Orion.” According to reports, Strawberry is being used to generate high-quality training data for Orion. This approach aims to reduce errors like “hallucinations,” where AI generates incorrect or nonsensical information.
The development of these advanced AI models requires significant resources, both in terms of computing power and financial investment. Running such models is expensive, which is why OpenAI might need to charge more for access to these cutting-edge tools.
### The Cost of Advanced AI
Currently, ChatGPT Premium is reportedly on track to generate $2 billion in revenue annually for OpenAI. However, the costs of developing and running increasingly sophisticated AI models may outpace this revenue growth. As a result, OpenAI is considering higher prices for access to models like Strawberry and Orion.
For entrepreneurs and businesses that rely on AI, these new models could offer powerful new capabilities, but they may come with a much steeper price. The decision to charge more for these advanced models highlights the growing cost of developing and maintaining top-tier AI technology.
OpenAI’s next-generation AI models, including the reasoning model Strawberry and the large language model Orion, could be a game-changer in the field of artificial intelligence. However, those looking to use these advanced tools should be prepared for potentially high costs. As AI technology continues to evolve, the prices for accessing the most powerful models are likely to reflect the significant investments required to create and sustain them.
