OpenAI launches two ‘open’ AI reasoning models
TechCrunch2 days
OpenAI Releases First Open-Weight Models Since 2019
Above: The OpenAI logo displayed on a smartphone in Chongqing, China, on June 5, 2025. Image copyright: CFOTO/Future Publishing/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This release represents a strategic comeback to OpenAI's founding principles of democratizing AI technology. Making powerful reasoning models freely available levels the playing field for developers and researchers who previously couldn't access cutting-edge AI capabilities. The move strengthens America's position in the global AI race against Chinese competitors like DeepSeek.
Narrative B
OpenAI's sudden pivot to problematic open-weight models appears driven by competitive pressure rather than a genuine commitment to openness. The company withholds crucial training data while claiming transparency, and the timing coincides suspiciously with Chinese AI labs gaining prominence. This half-measure approach undermines true open-source principles while potentially cannibalizing OpenAI's own profitable API business.