Why CAN’T I use GPT-5 when calling the API but I CAN use GPT-4o?

Understanding API Accessibility: Why GPT-5 Isn’t Available, But GPT-4 Is

If you’re currently integrating OpenAI’s language models into your projects, you might have noticed that some models are accessible via API while others aren’t. A common question among developers and enthusiasts is: “Why can’t I use GPT-5 through the API, but GPT-4 is available?” Let’s explore this topic to clarify the differences and provide some guidance for setting up your projects effectively.

The Context of Model Accessibility

OpenAI continuously updates and expands its suite of language models, offering varying capabilities and access restrictions. As of now, GPT-4 is widely available through the official API, enabling developers to incorporate its advanced language comprehension into their applications. However, GPT-5 has not been released for public API access, which explains its inaccessibility for your current integrations.

Common Scenarios: Using Google Apps Script with OpenAI API

Many users integrate OpenAI’s models into Google Sheets via Apps Script to automate and enhance their workflows. If you’ve attempted to call GPT-5 through Apps Script and encountered issues, it’s likely because the API endpoint or version you’re trying to access doesn’t exist or isn’t yet supported.

It’s important to verify which models are officially available. As of now, GPT-4 is supported on the OpenAI API, while GPT-5 remains under development or behind proprietary access restrictions. This means that attempts to invoke GPT-5 via API calls will result in failures, often with error messages indicating unrecognized models or endpoints.

Best Practices for API Integration

1. Stay Updated with Official Announcements: Regularly check OpenAI’s official channels for updates on new model releases and API capabilities.

2. Verify Supported Models: Consult the API documentation to confirm which models are currently accessible and their correct identifiers.

3. Adjust Your Code Accordingly: When implementing your scripts, ensure you’re referencing the correct model name, such as ‘gpt-4’, and using the proper API endpoints.

4. Plan for Future Updates: As new models become available, update your integrations to leverage the latest capabilities, always following official guidance.

Conclusion

The key reason you cannot use GPT-5 via API while GPT-4 is available is simply that GPT-5 has not yet been made accessible to developers through the API. Staying informed about OpenAI’s official releases and documentation will ensure your projects utilize the most current and supported models, helping you achieve optimal results in your automation and AI applications.

If you have further questions or need assistance with integrating