- Deprecated Models
- 28
- Legacy Models
- 0
- Retiring Soon
- 28
- Providers
- 1
- Latest Deprecation
- January 2027
How OpenAI retires and replaces models
Like every major AI lab, OpenAI ships new models faster than it can maintain old ones. As newer generations arrive with better quality, larger context windows or lower prices, earlier releases are moved to legacy status and eventually shut down. This page tracks 28 deprecated, 0 legacy and 28 retiring-soon OpenAI models, with the most recent change dated January 2027.
If you still call any of these models in production, use the Replacement column above to find the model OpenAI recommends in its place, then compare the input and output prices so you can budget the migration. Where no direct successor is named, the safest path is usually the current flagship in the same family.
OpenAI uses the term "deprecation" to refer to the process of retiring a model or endpoint. A model or endpoint announced as being deprecated, immediately becomes deprecated and also has a shut down date. At the time of the shut down, the model or endpoint is no longer accessible.
OpenAI uses the terms "sunset" and "shut down" interchangeably to mean a model or endpoint is no longer accessible. It uses the term "legacy" to refer to models and endpoints that no longer receive updates. Developers should consider moving from legacy models to newer models or endpoints as a legacy model or endpoint is highly likely to be deprecated in the future.
OpenAI provides below minimum notice periods for different model types:
- Generally available models: 6 months
- Specialized variants of generally available models: 3 months
- Preview models: 2 weeks
Note: Models could be retired sooner than the above notice periods if they are found to be unsafe, non-compliant, or if there are other unforeseen circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
How many OpenAI models are deprecated or legacy?
We currently track 56 OpenAI models that are deprecated, legacy or scheduled for retirement, including 28 fully deprecated and 0 legacy. The most recent change is dated January 2027.
What should I migrate to when a OpenAI model is retired?
Check the Replacement column in the table above for the successor OpenAI recommends. When no direct replacement is listed, compare OpenAI's active models by price and capability, or explore alternatives from other providers.
What does "deprecated" mean?
A deprecated AI model is one the provider has officially phased out. It may still respond for a limited grace period, but it no longer receives updates and is scheduled to stop working. Providers usually recommend a newer replacement model.
What does "legacy" mean?
A legacy model is an older generation that remains available but is no longer the recommended option. Legacy models often still run reliably, yet they typically trail newer models on quality, speed, context length or price.
What does "retiring soon" mean?
Retiring soon (scheduled for retirement) means the provider has announced a future date after which the model will be shut down. You can still use it today, but you should plan a migration before the retirement date.
Can I still use these models?
Sometimes. Legacy and retiring-soon models usually still work until their shutdown date, while fully deprecated models may already be unavailable via the API. Always check the provider’s official documentation for the exact status.
What should I use instead?
Where a provider names a successor, we show it in the Replacement column so you can jump straight to the recommended model. If no replacement is listed, compare active models by price and capability to pick the best fit.
How often is this list updated?
The list is generated from our live model database, so counts, dates and replacements update automatically as providers announce deprecations and retirements.