WSJ reports OpenAI scrapped GPT-6.1 Astra over safety concerns
The model was due to debut in ChatGPT and Codex in October, after researchers raised concerns during internal testing, the Journal reports.
By Ryan Merket · Published
Primary source: X
Why it matters
The post points to a safety question with a real precedent: OpenAI delayed parts of Astra's development before releasing it. But the public record confirms GPT-6 Astra, not an October GPT-6.1 plan or its cancellation.
A Wall Street Journal report by Maxwell Zeff says OpenAI is scrapping the release of GPT-6.1 Astra over safety concerns raised by researchers during internal testing. The model was due to debut in ChatGPT and Codex in October, the Journal reports. That confirms the report behind an X post by Leo (@synthwavedd), which shared an image of the Journal headline. The post was published on September 28th, 2026.
OpenAI's public product and API materials identify GPT-6 Astra, introduced on September 3rd, but do not document a GPT-6.1 release. The company described Astra as a model for complex reasoning, coding, computer use, research and professional work, with availability through ChatGPT plans, the API, Microsoft Azure and Amazon Bedrock. Its API catalog lists a 1.05-million-token context window, a maximum output of 128,000 tokens and rates of $10 per million input tokens and $50 per million output tokens.
OpenAI had already disclosed safety concerns around Astra. In a September 1st safety update, the company said the model met its "Critical" threshold for cybersecurity capability, meaning it could identify previously unknown flaws and develop exploits in well-protected systems without a person guiding each step. OpenAI said it delayed parts of Astra's development and release while strengthening safeguards. It released Astra two days later, saying the protections were sufficient for deployment, while limiting access to the model's most advanced cybersecurity capabilities.
The API changelog records GPT-6 Sol and GPT-6 Luna releases on September 22nd, alongside Astra in the GPT-6 family. Those public records describe available models, while the Journal's report concerns a planned GPT-6.1 release and its cancellation. The reported October debut would have put the model in ChatGPT and Codex; the available public materials do not specify what would have changed in its capabilities, API terms or access.