# OpenAI Unveils o1: A New Family of Reasoning Language Models
OpenAI has made headlines with the recent announcement of its latest innovation in the field of AI language models. Contrary to rumors of “Strawberry” or GPT-5, OpenAI has introduced a new family of large language models (LLMs) called o1. These models are specifically designed to excel in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.
## What Sets o1 Apart from Previous Models?
The o1 family consists of two models: o1-preview and o1-mini. These models are currently available to ChatGPT Plus users and developers who utilize OpenAI’s paid API. Unlike previous models, o1 models incorporate a form of “reasoning.” They employ different strategies, recognize mistakes, and engage in the full thinking process, resulting in performance comparable to that of PhD students on challenging benchmarks.
## Limitations of the o1 Models
While the o1 models offer impressive reasoning capabilities, they are currently limited to text inputs and outputs. This means that they cannot analyze images or files. Additionally, the o1 models are not yet equipped to browse the web for external knowledge beyond their training cutoff date of October 2023. However, users can provide their own text inputs for the models to reference and analyze.
One downside to the o1 models is their slower response time. In some cases, it may take over a minute for them to generate outputs. Despite this, early alpha users have reported increased performance in tasks such as coding and drafting legal documents.
## Pricing: A Trade-off between Cost and Functionality
The pricing of the o1 models reflects their advanced capabilities. The o1-preview model offers extensive “world knowledge” beyond STEM subjects and is priced at $15 per 1 million input tokens and $60 per 1 million output tokens. In comparison, GPT-4o, the previous most advanced model, costs $5/$15 for the same token quantities. However, the o1-mini model provides a more affordable option at $3 per 1 million input tokens and $12 per 1 million output tokens.
OpenAI acknowledges that pricing adjustments may be necessary in the future to align it with market demands and user expectations.
## Innovative Use Cases for o1
Despite being recently introduced, the o1 models have already generated excitement among developers. Some of the most compelling use cases include:
### 1. Generating Plans and White Papers
Developers have reported that the o1 models can generate well-developed action plans and even complete documents like white papers with citations based on simple prompts.
### 2. Planning, Infrastructure, and Risk Assessment
The o1-preview model has demonstrated its ability to optimize schedules, assess merger risks, design efficient warehouses, and balance power grids. These capabilities can significantly streamline operations for organizations across various industries.
### 3. Creating Apps and Games Quickly
By combining the o1-preview model with tools like Cursor Composer, developers have been able to generate interactive apps and games rapidly. This feature offers a convenient alternative for those seeking to build their own applications.
### 4. Completing Requests-for-Proposal (RFPs) on its Own
Contractors can leverage the o1 models to automate the process of filling out tedious RFPs. While limited to text inputs, the models can still provide valuable assistance in this area.
### 5. Strategizing Engagement and Growth Hacking
The o1 models have shown promise in developing comprehensive plans for growth hacking strategies. They can provide insights and recommendations for utilizing platforms like Reddit to drive engagement and business growth.
## Accessing the o1 Models
Developers can access the o1 models through OpenAI’s public API, as well as Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, Azure AI Studio, and GitHub Models. While the o1 models may not be suitable for all developers, they offer an exciting opportunity for experimentation and the development of new applications and services.
OpenAI is committed to further enhancing the capabilities of both the o1 models and its existing GPT series, ensuring a wide range of options for developers leveraging their platforms.
