OpenAI Updates o3-mini Model with Summarized Reasoning Traces to Compete with DeepSeek

The new feature aims to enhance transparency and usability, but some users criticize the lack of full reasoning visibility.

OpenAI has introduced an updated chain of thought (CoT) feature in its o3-mini model, summarizing the AI's reasoning process for users.
The update is seen as a response to competition from DeepSeek-R1, which offers fully transparent reasoning traces.
While the summarized CoT improves clarity and accessibility, some users express dissatisfaction, preferring raw reasoning data for better debugging and steering.
The o3-mini model, now significantly cheaper than its predecessor o1, is positioned as a faster and more accurate alternative for reasoning tasks.
OpenAI acknowledges ongoing debates about transparency and open-sourcing, as rivals like DeepSeek gain traction with open and adaptable models.