OpenAI has announced plans to offer ChatGPT Plus subscribers access to older models, following widespread user dissatisfaction with the recent launch of its GPT-5 model. The decision represents a significant reversal, as OpenAI had initially intended to streamline its platform by transitioning all users to GPT-5.
User Feedback Drives the Change
The shift comes after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and other leaders held a “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) session on Reddit on Friday. The session followed the announcement of GPT-5 and quickly revealed a strong preference among users for previous models like GPT-4.1, GPT-4.5, and notably, the 4o model. Many users felt these earlier versions excelled at writing tasks and offered a more engaging, conversational experience.
“BRING BACK 4o,” one user posted, “GPT-5 is wearing the skin of my dead friend.”
This sentiment was echoed by others who described GPT-5 as “short” and “cold,” lacking the warmth and nuance they found in previous models. The sudden overnight switch left many feeling as though they had lost access to a tool they relied on.
Addressing Technical Issues and Planning Ahead
Beyond user preference, the rollout of GPT-5 itself faced some initial challenges. Altman acknowledged that the program responsible for routing prompts to either a faster, more lightweight model within GPT-5 or a more intensive reasoning model encountered issues on Thursday. This affected the performance of the platform and contributed to a slower-than-expected rollout of GPT-5 to all users.
In response to this combination of factors – user feedback and technical glitches – OpenAI plans to explore offering ChatGPT Plus subscribers the option to use the 4o model, or potentially other previous models. Altman stated that OpenAI is listening to user concerns regarding the 4o model, and will monitor usage patterns to determine the appropriate length of support for the older version.
What This Means for the Future of ChatGPT
This situation highlights the delicate balance between technological advancement and user experience in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. OpenAI’s decision to reconsider its strategy demonstrates the importance of actively listening to user feedback, even after a major product launch. The availability of older models suggests a flexible approach to future updates, where users have some control over the type of AI they interact with. It raises the question of whether OpenAI will adopt a modular system in the future, allowing for a more personalized experience within ChatGPT.
