OpenAI has restricted the initial rollout of its latest frontier AI models, GPT 5.6 series, to a small group of trusted partners at the request of the US government. This decision follows a similar move by Anthropic, which disabled access to some of its models due to a US government export control directive. The short-term arrangement is intended to allow the administration to develop a framework for reviewing frontier AI models.

• OpenAI is staggering the release of its GPT 5.6 series AI models at the request of the US government.
• This is the first time OpenAI has restricted a flagship release at Washington’s request.
• Anthropic previously restricted access to its Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models following a US government export control directive.
• The current arrangement is temporary, pending the development of a review framework for frontier AI models.
• The US government’s approach to AI oversight has shifted towards closer scrutiny due to cybersecurity and national security concerns.