OpenAI launches GPT-4.5, its largest model to date | TechCrunch
Mar 01, 2025 - techcrunch.com
This week's TechCrunch Week in Review covers several major tech developments. OpenAI launched its largest AI model yet, GPT-4.5, codenamed Orion, with limited access for ChatGPT Pro subscribers. Microsoft announced the end of Skype, urging users to migrate to Microsoft Teams before the service shuts down in May. Anthropic used Pokémon Red to benchmark its Claude 3.7 Sonnet model, while Amazon introduced Alexa+, a new AI experience free for Prime subscribers. Perplexity is launching Comet, an AI web browser, and raising funds for further growth. Meanwhile, Meta is reintroducing a program to pay creators for viral content as it phases out third-party fact-checking in the U.S.
Additional news includes Google’s release of Gemini Code Assist, a free AI code completion tool, and Lucid Motors CEO Peter Rawlinson stepping down. Sam Bankman-Fried posted on X from prison, and Fyre Festival 2 was announced by Billy McFarland. The analysis section discusses the rollback of DEI programs in response to government pressures, with companies like McDonald’s and Walmart reducing their commitments, while others like Apple and JPMorgan maintain their diversity efforts.
Key takeaways:
OpenAI launched GPT-4.5, its largest AI model to date, available to ChatGPT Pro subscribers as part of a research preview.
Microsoft is shutting down Skype, urging users to migrate to Microsoft Teams before May 5.
Amazon introduced Alexa+, a new AI experience free for Prime subscribers, with a new web and mobile interface.
Fyre Festival is making a comeback with a sequel event planned in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, from May 30 to June 2.
