GPT-4o Returns to ChatGPT Amid User Backlash
OpenAI
GPT-4o
GPT-5
ChatGPT
AI
User Backlash
Model Picker
8
Reactive Innovation
Media Hype
7/10
Real Impact
8/10
What is the Viqus Verdict?
We evaluate each news story based on its real impact versus its media hype to offer a clear and objective perspective.
AI Analysis:
While the news itself isn’t revolutionary, the speed and scale of OpenAI’s response demonstrates a growing awareness within the industry of the importance of listening to user voices. The initial hype around GPT-5 was considerable, but this correction indicates a more grounded approach to innovation driven by user demand, suggesting a higher potential for long-term success.
Article Summary
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has reversed course, returning GPT-4o to ChatGPT following a significant user backlash. The AI model, previously removed during the GPT-5 launch, is now the default option for all ChatGPT Plus and paid users. This follows a furious reaction from thousands of users who felt they’d lost access to their preferred model. Altman acknowledged OpenAI underestimated the importance of features within GPT-4o to users. To address concerns, OpenAI increased rate limits for the GPT-5 Thinking mode from 200 to 3,000 messages per week, and introduced new routing options – ‘Auto,’ ‘Fast,’ and ‘Thinking’ – giving users greater control. Beyond model availability, OpenAI addressed complaints about GPT-5's abrupt and less conversational output compared to GPT-4o, with updates planned to warm up the model’s personality. This incident highlights the challenges of a rapid AI model rollout and the crucial role of user feedback in shaping future development.Key Points
- GPT-4o has been reinstated as the default model in ChatGPT for all paid users.
- OpenAI initially removed all previous AI models from ChatGPT when GPT-5 launched, sparking widespread user outrage.
- OpenAI implemented changes including increased rate limits and new routing options to address user concerns.