GPT-6 Astra launched on September 3, 2026, as OpenAI’s flagship model with confirmed standard API pricing of $10 per million input tokens and $50 per million output tokens (long-context and Fast mode rates higher; batch discounts available). The debut followed internal safety reviews that delayed rollout due to “Critical” cybersecurity capabilities, including novel exploit discovery. Astra saturates multiple benchmarks (ARC-AGI-3 at 99.9%, FrontierMath Tier 4 near 98%, ExploitBench at 100%) and outperforms GPT-5.6 Sol on agentic tasks like computer use and software engineering while rolling out first via limited programs then to ChatGPT Pro/Business/Enterprise and partners including Azure and Bedrock. Competitive pressure from recent Claude releases and OpenAI’s emphasis on cost-per-task efficiency versus raw token rates shape trader focus on whether future 6.1+ variants or updates alter the $50 output benchmark.