Can OpenAI Close the AI Gap with New Model GPT-5.2?

OpenAI has released a new artificial intelligence model, GPT-5.2, which claims to be “the best model yet for real-world, professional use.” The company says its technology tops several industry standard benchmarks involving computer programming, math, and science. However, many experts argue that the technical gap between OpenAI’s foundational AI model and other companies has become practically nonexistent.

The release of GPT-5.2 comes at a challenging time for OpenAI, as it tries to close the significant revenue gap between its earnings and expenses. The company expects to reach $20 billion in income annually by 2025 but is still not profitable. To achieve this goal, OpenAI plans to spend $1.4 trillion on computing power over several years.

Despite facing stiff competition from rival companies like Google and Vals AI, OpenAI continues to push its technology forward. The new GPT-5.2 model shows improvements in generating computer code and performing tasks in specific areas, such as healthcare and finance. However, the company still faces a significant challenge in competing with established tech giants.

The success of OpenAI’s consumer chatbot, ChatGPT, is crucial to its future. With over 800 million users weekly, it translates to a 76% market share. To maintain this lead, OpenAI plans to prioritize improvements to ChatGPT, including reducing declined questions and personalizing the chatbot for individual needs.

In addition to ChatGPT, OpenAI is expanding into business software using the same AI technology. The company has made significant progress in improving its models through techniques like reinforcement learning and coding technologies. However, it still faces challenges in competing with established players like Google.

Overall, the release of GPT-5.2 marks an important step for OpenAI as it tries to close the AI gap with rival companies. With its continued focus on ChatGPT and business software, the company is well-positioned to drive growth and profitability in the years to come.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/11/technology/openai-google-ai-technology-gap.html