Zhipu AI launches GLM-5.3 API, rivaling top models at lower cost

Zhipu AI announced today that its latest large model, GLM-5.3, is now available via API. The model excels in complex coding, defensive cybersecurity, and long-horizon tasks. According to the company, it scored 60 on the global AA Intelligence Index, placing it alongside closed-source flagships like Claude Fable 5 and GPT-5.6 Sol, and tied with Kimi K3 for first among open-source models.

GLM-5.3 achieves this high intelligence with a smaller parameter size and lower cost per task, making cutting-edge AI more accessible. The company reports the lowest per-task cost among top models, positioning it in the sweet spot of high intelligence and low expense, pushing the frontier of the intelligence-cost tradeoff.

Currently, GLM-5.3 is integrated into coding platforms like ZCode and is part of the GLM Coding Plan. The API is open with pricing unchanged from GLM-5.2, and the model weights will be open-sourced next Friday.