OpenAI o1 is a new model series designed for complex thinking and problem-solving. It offers enhanced performance in science, mathematics, and programming and sets new standards in AI safety.
With the new OpenAI o1 model series, OpenAI introduces advanced AI models capable of solving challenging problems through deep analytical thinking. These models demonstrate improved abilities in analysis and problem-solving, offering significant advancements over previous versions in fields like science, mathematics, and programming.
How does OpenAI o1 work?
The OpenAI o1 models are trained to approach complex problems as a human would. Instead of immediately responding to queries, they analyze thoroughly and consider various strategies before making a decision. This approach enables them to solve difficult tasks accurately. In internal tests, the next planned version of the model achieved results comparable to those of PhD students in fields like physics, chemistry, and biology. Additionally, in mathematics, the model demonstrated significant progress: in a qualifying exam for the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO), it achieved a success rate of 83% compared to only 13% for GPT-4o.
The progress in programming is particularly noteworthy: in a Codeforces competition, the model reached the 89th percentile, outperforming many established systems. However, the model currently lacks some practical features that other models like GPT-4o offer.
Safety aspects of OpenAI o1
A key innovation in the OpenAI o1 series is its focus on safety. The model was trained to apply its enhanced reasoning capabilities to comply with safety guidelines. This allows it to better consider context information and implement safety rules more effectively.
An example of its safety performance can be seen in “jailbreak” tests: while GPT-4o scored only 22 (on a scale of 0 to 100) in these tests, OpenAI o1-preview scored 84. To further enhance these capabilities, OpenAI works closely with various international safety organizations and has recently entered into agreements with AI Safety Institutes in the USA and the UK. These collaborations include providing the institutes with early access to research models to comprehensively test their safety before public release.
Target audience and applications
The OpenAI o1 models are particularly suitable for scientists, developers, and researchers working on complex problem-solving. Typical use cases include:
- Science: Assisting in the annotation of cell sequencing data.
- Physics: Generating complex mathematical formulas needed for quantum optics.
- Software development: Automating and optimizing multi-step workflows through precise debugging and generation of complex code structures.
What’s next?
Since OpenAI o1-preview is an early version, regular updates and improvements are expected. Planned additions include features like browsing the internet and uploading files and images, making the model even more useful for a broader audience. In parallel, OpenAI will continue to develop its GPT model series and release new versions of the o1 series.