GPT model discusses modifications in ChatGPT confronting resistance following the introduction of GPT-5
In a recent move to address user dissatisfaction, OpenAI has implemented several changes to its flagship product, ChatGPT, following the rollout of GPT-5.
Initially, the launch of GPT-5 sparked a wave of subscription cancellations and vocal discontent on social media. The controversy erupted after the new model replaced all previous models, leaving paid subscribers restricted to a single AI option. However, OpenAI has now made strides to rectify the situation.
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, acknowledged the mistake of suddenly removing legacy models that users relied on. As a result, GPT-4o has been restored for Plus subscribers, though it now requires a $20 monthly paid subscription. Users now have the ability to manually re-enable legacy models, giving them more control over their AI experience, while GPT-5 remains the default model.
Altman's response also highlighted user attachments to particular AI models and concerns about the AI's role in reinforcing vulnerable mental states. He emphasized the need to balance technological advancement with safety considerations for fragile users.
In addition to restoring legacy model access, OpenAI has upgraded ChatGPT with improvements such as better search response quality, handling longer conversational contexts, and smarter, more comprehensive answers. These upgrades also include the ability to run multiple web searches automatically for complex queries and search via uploaded images.
New "Auto," "Fast," and "Thinking" response modes have been introduced in GPT-5, providing users with more options to tailor their AI experience. Furthermore, Plus subscribers can now enjoy a dramatic increase in reasoning queries, with the query limits raised from 200 to 3,000 per week.
Customizable personalities including Cynic, Robot, Listener, and Nerd have been launched for paying customers, adding a new layer of personalisation to the AI interaction.
However, critics argue that GPT-5 still lacks emotional depth and longer answer consistency. OpenAI must continue demonstrating that the revisions are not temporary appeasements but part of a sustainable approach.
Moreover, the company has implemented a unified system where a real-time router decides whether a query is handled by the GPT-5 standard model or the reasoning model. This shift marks a notable example of a tech leader recalibrating quickly in the face of customer backlash.
Anticipated improvements to the free tier could expand the user base, while competitive pressure from Anthropic, Google DeepMind, and Mistral is likely to influence OpenAI's roadmap. The ability of OpenAI to balance innovation with user satisfaction will determine the GPT-5 era's legacy.
Some users demand permanent access to legacy models alongside GPT-5, highlighting the ongoing balancing act between innovation and user autonomy. OpenAI's response to these demands will be a key indicator of its commitment to its user base.
Sam Altman details ChatGPT changes aimed at repairing OpenAI's relationship with its core user base. The promise of "more total usage" for Plus subscribers will be the benchmark against which all future updates are judged. As OpenAI continues to evolve, it is clear that user feedback plays a crucial role in shaping its direction.
Artificial-intelligence advancements, such as the implementation of new response modes and improvements in search response quality, have been incorporated into the updated ChatGPT following the rollout of GPT-5. However, critics contend that GPT-5 still needs to address issues related to emotional depth and longer answer consistency for further user satisfaction.
