Openai's astra model closes gap in spatial reasoning, once a human advantage

On September 6, 2026, Boris Power, OpenAI's head of applied research, stated that spatial reasoning, once a significant human advantage over computers, is no longer a gap with the release of the Astra model. Independent AI researcher @spicylemonade noted that Astra performed perfectly in spatial reasoning tests, mastering all questions, unlike previous large language models (LLMs) that consistently failed. OpenAI claims Astra is the 'most intelligent and aligned model globally,' marking a leap in professional work capabilities. Astra can handle tasks such as filling out forms, adjusting document formats, scheduling appointments, and operating software. OpenAI's CEO, Brockman, asserted, 'Welcome to the AGI era.' Astra was launched approximately one year after the GPT-5 series and two months after the GPT-5.6 update.