This week, you'll have the chance to experience OpenAI's GPT-5.6 models: Sol, Terra, and Luna.

      The GPT-5.6 family will be made publicly available on July 9, bringing an end to the restricted preview that lasted nearly two weeks.

      OpenAI is set to broaden access to its newest GPT-5.6 model family. In a recent update on X, the company announced that the GPT-5.6 Sol, Terra, and Luna models will be accessible to the public starting Thursday, July 9. If you've been eager to experiment with the new models since the limited preview kicked off in late June, your wait will soon be over.

      Why the rollout took longer than anticipated

      This announcement signals the conclusion of a particularly limited rollout. When OpenAI unveiled the GPT-5.6 family on June 26, access was restricted to around 20 trusted partners at the request of the US government, which sought time to review the models prior to a wider release. With preview access now expanding globally in advance of Thursday's launch, it seems this review process has concluded.

      OpenAI is not the only AI firm to face extra governmental scrutiny before a significant model launch. Earlier this year, Anthropic had to halt access to Claude’s latest Fable and Mythos models due to compliance with the US Commerce Department’s export controls. After a similar evaluation, they resumed availability on July 1.

      What’s new in GPT-5.6

      Rather than releasing a single model, OpenAI has divided GPT-5.6 into three distinct variants. Sol stands out as the flagship and most capable model, aimed at advanced coding and cybersecurity tasks; Terra serves as a more balanced option for everyday workflows; while Luna is designed to be the fastest and most budget-friendly variant. This new naming system is intended to simplify the decision-making process for developers choosing between intelligence, speed, and cost.

      OpenAI has also stated that GPT-5.6 includes enhancements in reasoning, coding, and long-duration agentic tasks. Moreover, Sol features new Max and Ultra reasoning modes for managing complex workflows.

      Pranob is an experienced tech journalist with over eight years of expertise in consumer technology coverage.

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      A broken Galaxy Fold 5 could be seen as a disappointing reminder of contemporary gadget issues. With one damaged outer display and a repair bill that no one wants to scrutinize thoroughly, a once-powerful foldable device might soon find itself in a drawer. However, a Reddit user ingeniously repurposed it into a luminous acrylic DeX box using spare parts, fans, a USB hub, and vibrant LED lighting that makes any homemade computer appear somewhat illicit.

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      Your next Teams meeting could feature an AI assistant responding to questions for you

      Teams is becoming smarter, cleaner, and more discreet about it. The AI features are optional, and chat cleanup occurs automatically.

      Microsoft Teams is undergoing a significant update that revamps nearly every aspect of the app, from AI-assisted meetings to an enhanced chat layout. Most of these changes are already in the testing phase, with several expected to launch before the end of summer. The most intriguing addition is an upgraded AI Facilitator capable of listening to your meeting, recognizing when someone appears confused, and generating a response (as reported by Windows Report).