OpenAI's new o3 and o4-mini models are all about 'thinking with images'

OpenAI has launched two new models, o3 and o4-mini, just days after announcing GPT-4.1. O3 is the more advanced reasoning model, excelling in coding, math, and science. O4-mini is a lower-cost alternative that also performs well in these areas. Both models can utilize and combine all ChatGPT tools, including web browsing and image generation. This allows them to solve complex, multi-step problems more effectively, exhibiting greater independence. They possess advanced visual processing, understanding and interpreting images like whiteboards and diagrams. OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, announced a change of plans, releasing o3 and o4-mini contrary to initial intentions. A new coding agent, Codex CLI, designed to link OpenAI's models with local code, is also being released. GPT-5's release is expected in the coming months, delaying the streamlining initially planned. ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Team users can now access o3 and o4-mini. O3-pro, a more powerful version, will soon be available to Pro subscribers.