OpenAI Responds to User Backlash with GPT-5 Personality Update, Model Options

OpenAI has quickly addressed user dissatisfaction after its GPT-5 model replaced GPT-4o as the default in ChatGPT. 

Users condemned GPT-5 for its “cold,” “mechanical,” and “less empathetic” tone, leading to threats of subscription cancellations. In response, OpenAI restored GPT-4o to the model picker for all paid users.

CEO Sam Altman confirmed that GPT-5’s personality will be revised. “We are working on an update to GPT-5’s personality which should feel warmer than the current personality but not as annoying (to most users) as GPT-4o,” he wrote on X. 

He added that one major takeaway from the rollout is the importance of “more per-user customization of model personality,” allowing individuals to tailor the AI’s tone and style to their preference.

OpenAI has also introduced three distinct modes for GPT-5: Auto, the default setting for general use; Fast, prioritising speed; and Thinking, designed for deeper reasoning with a context window of 196,000 tokens and a weekly message limit of 3,000 for paid users. After hitting this limit, users can continue on GPT-5 Thinking mini, a lighter version with reduced compute requirements.

In addition to restoring GPT-4o, OpenAI has made several older models accessible via the “Show additional models” toggle in ChatGPT settings. These include GPT-4.1, GPT-03, and GPT-5 Thinking mini. GPT-4.5 is still reserved for Pro users due to its heavy GPU demands.

Altman noted that the quick reinstatement of these models reflects the emotional attachment users have developed to specific AI personalities, an aspect OpenAI had underestimated. 

The company plans to allow even more granular personality customization, with potential options ranging from “Cynic” and “Listener” to “Robot” or “Nerd,” along with the possibility for fully custom tones and behaviours.

“These updates mark a shift in AI development,” Altman added. “It’s no longer just about raw capability; user experience and emotional resonance are becoming central. We’re not always going to get everything on try #1, but I’m proud of how quickly the team can iterate.”

OpenAI is working to balance powerful AI functionality with a more engaging and personally tailored user experience.

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