The Decoder · 10/7/2026, 3:36:39 PM
OpenAI Launches Decisions API for Fast, Simple Evaluations
OpenAI has launched the public beta of its new Decisions API, designed for fast text and image evaluations like classification and rating, running approximately ten times faster than the Responses API. Currently supporting only gpt-6-luna with free output tokens, this move addresses the emerging trend of 'decision models' while simultaneously simplifying OpenAI's paid API tier structure.
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OpenAI announced two updates to its API platform. The new Decisions API evaluates text, images, or both, running about ten times faster than the Responses API. It's in public beta now, with general availability coming soon. Only gpt-6-luna is supported so far, at $0.10 per million input tokens. Output tokens are free.
The API handles three response types: yes/no probabilities, picks from predefined categories, and scale-based ratings. Use cases include damage detection in photos, automatic customer inquiry routing, and document classification, OpenIA says. It supports zero-data retention and HIPAA-compliant use in the US and Europe. The Decisions API is likely OpenAI's response to the mini-trend of "decision models" that Jev kicked off in mid-September.
OpenAI also cut its paid API tiers from five down to three: Build, Launch, and Grow. Organizations move up automatically when their total credit purchases hit the next threshold. Monthly usage limits sit at 5,000, and $200,000.