OpenAI is preparing to unveil its new series of models, GPT-5.6, on July 9. This announcement was made via the platform X, indicating a significant expansion of access to these advanced AI systems.
The rollout includes three variants: Sol, Luna, and Terra. Initially, these models were available only to a select group of trusted partners, a decision influenced by a request from the Trump administration. In early June, President Trump signed an AI cybersecurity order that mandated companies to submit their most powerful models for government review prior to public release.
OpenAI complied with this request, stating, “We don’t believe this kind of government access process should become the long-term default,” but acknowledged that it was necessary to expedite the release of their latest models.
Following additional testing and discussions with the Department of Commerce’s Center for AI Standards and Innovation, OpenAI received permission for a broader release. This involved sending technical experts to Washington, D.C., to address any potential questions or concerns from government officials.
The GPT-5.6 series features the Sol variant, which is touted as the strongest model to date. In contrast, Terra is designed for everyday use, offering performance comparable to GPT-5.5 at half the cost. Luna serves as the most economical option in the lineup.
Pricing details for the models are as follows: Sol is priced at $5 per million input tokens and $30 per million output tokens; Terra costs $2.50 per million input tokens and $15 for output; while Luna is available at $1 per million input tokens and $6 for output.
In a related development, Anthropic had to restrict access to its latest models, Mythos and Fable, to comply with government directives preventing foreign nationals from using them. However, the company has since received approval to redeploy the Mythos 5 model and plans to eventually release Fable 5 to the public.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
