GPT-4 vs. GPT-3: What Developers Need to Know

With ChatGPT gaining popularity each and every day, the team at OpenAI, creator of the highly-advanced chatbot, aren’t resting on their laurels. In fact, they recently released a new version of the language model that lies at the heart of ChatGPT and similar generative AI tools. GPT-4 brings a host of new advancements and features compared to the GPT-3 model. As such, developers need to understand these changes as they likely influence their current generative AI projects and products. 

If you weren’t aware, GPT stands for generative pretrained transformer, an awkward moniker calling out for the use of its acronym. These GPTs effectively function as deep learning models leveraging natural language processing to generate human-like text. It also provides the capability to understand more complex queries as opposed to search engines or the limited chatbots in use today. 

Developers hoping to leverage the promise of generative AI and ChatGPT need to understand what GPT-4 brings to the table compared to earlier versions. This knowledge informs the ideation process when brainstorming new ideas for this revolutionary technology. So check out this high-level overview of the most significant advancements in GPT-4 compared to GPT-3.

An Exponential Improvement in the GPT Model

Simply stated, GPT-4 provides a rumored exponential increase in the number of parameters used in the model. Parameters in a deep learning language model essentially define its overall skill in understanding and generating human language. GPT-3 uses 175 billion parameters. On the other hand, rumors state GPT-4 boasts a potential of upwards of 100 trillion parameters. However, OpenAI is still keeping the actual number secret. 

This massive increase in the number of parameters greatly improves the generative AI capabilities for any tool leveraging GPT-4. One noticeable difference reported by OpenAI is that GPT-4 reduces the generation of incorrect responses by 60 percent compared to GPT-3. Although improved human-based training accounts for some of this reduction. Its performance on a variety of standardized tests also improved compared to earlier models.

Remember, ChatGPT currently uses internet data with a cutoff time in 2021. Providing access to more recent information also helps boost the accuracy of any generated responses. Keep this in mind when developing your own generative AI tool using either GPT-3 or GPT-4. The means to use more current data remains a critical part of improving the credibility of any generative AI chatbot. 

Other Critical Differences Between GPT-3 and GPT-4 

In addition to an increased number of parameters and greater accuracy with the information it provides, GPT-4 offers other intriguing differences of interest to developers. One important change between the two latest versions of OpenAI’s deep learning model involves accessing the newest version. Expect to have a pay a monthly fee as a result. 

OpenAI recently introduced ChatGPT+, a paid version of the chatbot. One major reason for this relates to the server capacity problems due to so many users accessing ChatGPT. For $20 per month, users get access to a separate server with more capacity and less traffic, subsequently offering a faster response time. Most critically, it provides one option to currently access the new GPT-4 model and other new features provided by OpenAI. Note that other generative AI tools currently provide access to it, including Quora’s Poe Subscriptions tool. 

Somewhat surprisingly, ChatGPT+ and GPT-4 still suffer from the same data cutoff point of September 2021. This obviously leads to inaccurate or incomplete responses, so buyer beware. Ironically, you are able to access both GPT-4 and current data by signing up for the new Bing preview within Microsoft’s Edge web browser. 

Other improvements in GPT-4 compared to GPT-3 relate to improved scalability and the ability to process more complex tasks. This is expected to greatly enhance the types of applications built with the language model. Additionally, expect chatbots using the model to have the ability to leverage a wider variety of voices and styles used to communicate with users. 

Note that one generative AI feature not enhanced in GPT-4 involves the creation of content using images and videos. In short, GPT-4 is a text-only model according to OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman. Still, the improvements in its text processing ability likely remain more than enough for most developers to leverage in upcoming AI projects. 

OpenAI Recently Released an API with Access to GPT-4 

More important for developers is the news that OpenAI recently released an API providing programmatic access to GPT-4. This offers the means to build generative AI apps and integrate ChatGPT into your existing business systems using the latest language model and other underlying state of the art technology. Expect the availability of this API to greatly increase the number of apps using GPT-4. As such, developers need to explore signing up to access the new API to ensure their product has the chance to quickly make an impact.

If your company has an intriguing idea for a generative AI application and wants technical assistance crafting it, connect with the experts at NineTwoThree. We combine machine learning development knowledge and an entrepreneurial spirit, making us the perfect partner for your organization. Reach out to us to discuss the specifics of your concept.   

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