OpenAI launches o3-mini, its latest AI reasoning model

Microsoft-backed OpenAI on Friday introduced o3-mini, the latest addition to its ‘o’ family of AI reasoning models. The company first previewed the model in December alongside a more advanced system, o3.

Sam Altman, OpenAI’s chief executive, announced the launch on X, calling it a “smart, fast model” available on both ChatGPT and API.



He added that o3-mini can search the web, explain its reasoning, and is accessible to free-tier users via a “reason” button.

The launch comes as OpenAI seeks to counter concerns that it is losing ground in the AI race, particularly to Chinese firms like DeepSeek, which it has accused of intellectual property theft.