WSJ reports OpenAI scrapped GPT-6.1 Astra over safety concerns

According to a Wall Street Journal report by Maxwell Zeff, OpenAI has scrapped the planned release of GPT-6.1 Astra due to safety concerns raised by researchers during internal testing. The model was originally scheduled to debut in October in ChatGPT and Codex. The report was brought to wider attention via an X post by Leo (@synthwavedd) on September 28th, 2026. While public product materials only document GPT-6 Astra (introduced September 3rd) and not a GPT-6.1 release, OpenAI had previously disclosed safety concerns around Astra itself — specifically that it met a "Critical" threshold for cybersecurity capability, meaning it could identify previously unknown flaws and develop exploits in well-protected systems without human guidance. OpenAI delayed parts of Astra's development to strengthen safeguards before releasing it with limited access to its most advanced cybersecurity features. The GPT-6 family also includes GPT-6 Sol and GPT-6 Luna, released September 22nd. The Journal's report concerns a planned GPT-6.1 release and its cancellation, distinct from publicly available models.

(Source：RuntimeWire)