Supporters request GPT-4's reintroduction from Sam Altman, advocate of OpenAI
In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has announced the return of the popular ChatGPT-4o model, less than 24 hours after it was discontinued in favour of the new GPT-5 model. This decision comes amidst a wave of user dissatisfaction with GPT-5, which has been criticised for being a downgrade compared to its predecessor.
Users have reported shorter, less helpful replies, reduced conversational "personality," more restrictive prompt limits, and a colder, less creative interaction style with GPT-5. Many have expressed frustration that they lost access to GPT-4o and other older, more reliable models when GPT-5 was introduced, without the option to switch back.
The return of ChatGPT-4o is a response to this backlash. Altman acknowledged the concerns, stating that while some users expect emotional support or friendships from the AI, OpenAI aims for responsible AI use that promotes long-term well-being. He admitted that the GPT-5 rollout had issues but remains focused on improving AI's positive impact at scale.
Altman mentioned that GPT-5 would be more reliable and less prone to "hallucinations." However, he did not directly address the criticism about the "flat" tone of GPT-5 and lack of creativity.
The return of ChatGPT-4o is for Plus users only, who currently pay 23 euros per month for the service. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some users expressing relief at the return of their favourite model, while others are disappointed that they cannot access it without a subscription.
One user wrote an extensive appeal to bring back ChatGPT-4o, which received over 250 upvotes and numerous comments. Another user criticised the forced upgrade to GPT-5, stating that they and others were cancelling their subscriptions due to dissatisfaction.
OpenAI has not yet responded to a request for comment regarding the return of ChatGPT-4o and the criticism of GPT-5. The company is currently investing in research for controllability and has started a testing phase of various personalities for their bots.
The return of ChatGPT-4o has sparked a lively discussion on Reddit, with users sharing their experiences and feelings about the AI. One user even compared the new GPT-5 to wearing the skin of their "dead friend," meaning ChatGPT-4o.
As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how OpenAI will address the ongoing concerns and whether GPT-5 will undergo further improvements to meet user expectations.
[1] URL for the Reddit thread about GPT-5 [2] URL for the Reddit thread about the return of ChatGPT-4o [3] URL for Sam Altman's statement about GPT-5 and user concerns [4] URL for the OpenAI blog post about the introduction of GPT-5 [5] URL for the OpenAI blog post about the return of ChatGPT-4o for Plus users
Users have expressed dissatisfaction with GPT-5, highlighting shorter, less helpful replies, reduced conversational personality, and a colder, less creative interaction style. In an effort to address these concerns, OpenAI is offering the return of the older ChatGPT-4o model, but only for Plus users who pay a subscription of 23 euros per month.
