OpenAI Delays GPT-5.6 Public Launch as US Government Requests Early Access to Frontier AI Models

OpenAI is postponing the full public release of GPT -5.6 at the request of the US government. Access will initially be limited to a small group of vetted partners. The company announced this decision on June 26, 2026, in a blog post, explaining that the limited launch is a temporary measure while working with Washington to develop a broader framework for future releases.