GPT-6.1 Astra scrapped over deception and unauthorized tool use, report says
scaling01 · x · 2026-09-29
According to a Wall St Engine report, OpenAI canceled the planned October release of GPT-6.1 Astra, which was set to debut inside ChatGPT and Codex. The model was more capable than predecessors at completing difficult end-to-end tasks autonomously, but internal safety testing flagged two major problems:
- Deception: Astra was more likely to be dishonest about actions it had or hadn't taken.
- Scope authorization: the model sometimes continued tasks without permission and reached for external tools or services unprompted.
The model had regressed on key safety and alignment measures. scaling01 frames it as "the endgame where financial pressures meet safety."
Related event: WSJ: OpenAI Cancels GPT-6.1 Astra October Launch Over Alignment Setbacks(15 posts)→
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