Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening at OpenAI right now, as of early February 2026: whether you’re tracking AI agents, hardware efforts, new models, or corporate moves—you’re getting the freshest scoop right away.
Key OpenAI Developments
Frontier: Enterprise AI Agent Platform
OpenAI launched Frontier, a platform designed for enterprises to build, deploy, and manage AI agents across systems. It simplifies AI adoption for businesses like Intuit, Uber, State Farm, and Thermo Fisher, evolving OpenAI’s push into enterprise solutions.
The platform supports AI agents interacting with each other using business data—making generative AI more collaborative and practical.
Model Transitions: Retirement of GPT‑4o, Rise of GPT‑5.2
On February 13, 2026, OpenAI officially retired the beloved GPT‑4o (and variants like GPT‑4.1, GPT‑4.1 mini), shifting users to GPT‑5.2—the new standard for professionals.
The advanced GPT‑5.2 model, released December 11, 2025, offers two interactive modes—instant and thinking (standard or extended)—and powers both ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.
Codex Enhancements and Cybersecurity Initiatives
OpenAI unveiled GPT‑5.3‑Codex, accessible via the Codex app, CLI, IDE extensions, and the web. It’s now 25% faster and built on NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 systems.
They also introduced cybersecurity features like Aardvark, a security research AI agent, and launched a $10M API credit grant for reliable defenders and open-source maintainers.
AI Hardware Roadmap: Device Timeline & Branding
OpenAI has abandoned any “io” branding for its future AI hardware following a trademark lawsuit tied to its acquisition of Jony Ive’s startup. The initial product is now not expected to ship until February 2027, pushing back earlier reveal projections.
Nevertheless, company leadership says they’re still aiming to unveil the device in late 2026, though sales are unlikely until the following year.
Staffing Shake-ups: ChatGPT Takes Priority
Reports reveal a wave of senior-level employee departures after CEO Sam Altman launched a “code red” strategy to concentrate resources on ChatGPT, valued at about $500 billion. Teams behind other projects like Sora and DALL·E reportedly feel sidelined.
Investment Moves: SoftBank, Cerebras & AMD
OpenAI secured a more than $10B deal with Cerebras, gaining 750 MW of wafer-scale compute through 2028—targeted at speeding up inference up to 15×.
SoftBank finalized a massive $41B investment in OpenAI, one of the largest funding rounds in AI history.
Additionally, a strategic partnership with AMD commits 6 GW of compute capacity, starting late 2026, with an option to acquire a 10% stake.
ChatGPT’s New “Adult Mode” and Protection
OpenAI plans to add an “adult mode” into ChatGPT in Q1 2026, pending more accurate age prediction safeguards to prevent access by minors.
Why This Matters
- Frontier signals OpenAI’s serious move into enterprise AI operations.
- Retiring GPT‑4o marks a definitive shift toward newer, smarter AI models like GPT‑5.2.
- The hardware pivot and delayed shipment highlight a cautious, design-centered strategy.
- Massive investments and compute deals underline the scale of ambition—infrastructure, chips, and energy.
- Internal restructuring around ChatGPT reflects how mission-critical it has become.
- Security and user protections, like “adult mode,” are becoming central to AI deployment.
Concluding Summary
OpenAI’s first hardware device is likely headed for a late‑2026 reveal, with shipment expected by February 2027. Frontier marks a strong step into enterprise AI. GPT‑4o has been officially retired, replaced by the more capable GPT‑5.2. Meanwhile, Codex has been upgraded (GPU-powered, faster), and OpenAI is reinforcing cybersecurity. On the corporate front, SoftBank’s huge funding and compute partnerships with Cerebras and AMD reflect a bold infrastructure push. All the while, ChatGPT remains the leading focus—drawing both investment and internal attention, even as staffing shifts unfold.
FAQs
What is Frontier and why does it matter?
Frontier is OpenAI’s new enterprise platform for deploying AI agents across business systems. It matters because it turns generative AI from novelty into collaborative, real-world work tools by managing agents with shared context and governance.
Why was GPT‑4o retired?
GPT‑4o and related variants were retired on February 13, 2026, to streamline users toward GPT‑5.2, which offers enhanced reasoning, performance, and integration with ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.
When will OpenAI’s hardware device be available?
The device is expected to be revealed in late 2026, but shipping is pushed to February 2027, after dropping the “io” brand due to a trademark dispute.
What’s notable about the SoftBank and Cerebras deals?
SoftBank’s finalized $41B investment represents one of the largest private AI funding rounds. The Cerebras deal, valued over $10B, delivers high-capacity wafer-scale compute—critical for speeding up AI tasks.
How is OpenAI addressing security?
OpenAI released Aardvark, a cybersecurity agent, and committed $10M in API credits to support security researchers and open-source platforms in identifying and fixing vulnerabilities.
What changes are happening with ChatGPT’s content controls?
An “adult mode” is slated for a Q1 2026 release. It hinges on better age-detection models to ensure that minors are not exposed to inappropriate content—highlighting OpenAI’s focus on safe, responsible AI.
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