Anticipating Major Updates for ChatGPT and Claude: What to Expect

Rumors are swirling that significant updates to two leading AI chatbots, ChatGPT and Claude, are on the horizon. The speculation suggests that in the next couple of weeks, we could see substantial upgrades to their underlying models, pushing the boundaries of what AI can do.

One of the most prominent rumors centers on updates to the AI models that power both platforms. For Claude, many expect variations of Claude 3.5, with larger and smaller models potentially being released, especially since Anthropic launched the Sonnet model earlier this year. Meanwhile, the AI world is eagerly awaiting an upgrade to OpenAI’s GPT-4, which has gone some time without a new version.

OpenAI has teased several features, particularly the integration of SearchGPT and the full release of its o1 reasoning model. Anthropic has also been busy, recently updating its Claude mobile app and launching a new iPad version — perhaps signaling that they’re preparing for a new model release.

While no exact dates have been announced, both OpenAI and Anthropic have hinted throughout the year that major updates could arrive by fall. As we enter the season with leaves turning orange and Halloween decorations appearing, it feels like those updates could be just around the corner.

What to Expect in the AI Space

As a tech journalist, I’ve encountered my fair share of rumors about upcoming features and software changes. Just like speculations about new versions of iOS or updates to smartphone cameras, the AI industry is filled with similar anticipation.

We’ve started seeing feature add-ons, such as ChatGPT Canvas and Claude Artifacts, but most rumors focus on model changes. A new model update is akin to upgrading an operating system, such as moving from iOS 17 to 18 or Windows 10 to 11, rather than a simple tweak.

OpenAI’s last significant update to GPT-4 was back in the spring with the release of its multimodal Omni model and the o1 reasoning model. Speculation abounds about whether a GPT-4.5 or GPT-5 is in the works, but there’s also talk that OpenAI might shift away from this type of labeling altogether. However, it’s clear something big is coming soon — and many expect a major update to the GPT family.

Anthropic, on the other hand, has been consistent with its Claude updates. The Claude family comes in three tiers: Haiku, the small model; Sonnet, the mid-tier model; and Opus, the larger, high-parameter version. So far, we’ve only seen the mid-range Claude 3.5 Sonnet, but many are anticipating the release of Claude 3.5 Opus in the near future.

Why These Updates Matter

With each new AI model comes enhanced functionality and new capabilities. Many of these features are currently restricted by safety guardrails. For instance, GPT-4.0 can generate images, create vector graphics, and even sing, but these abilities have been deliberately disabled by OpenAI.

A new model could improve reasoning, perform better on standard benchmarks, and offer superior coding and writing capabilities. This would lead to more dynamic, nuanced interactions with AI, enriching the user experience.

Flagship models also have a ripple effect on smaller versions, making them cheaper, faster, and more efficient. This brings us closer to Sam Altman’s vision of “intelligence too cheap to meter.”

Even if we don’t see an entirely new model this year, we can likely expect the full rollout of features like SearchGPT in ChatGPT and more widespread access to Advanced Voice. For Anthropic, there’s a possibility we’ll see live internet access and code execution within Claude.

As we eagerly await these updates, one thing is clear: AI technology is advancing at a rapid pace, and the next big breakthrough might be just around the corner.