OpenAI to Revive GPT-4o Following User Backlash Against GPT-5 Launch
OpenAI plans to revive GPT-4o after user backlash against GPT-5's launch.
Key Points
- • OpenAI faced backlash for retiring GPT-4o during GPT-5 launch.
- • CEO Sam Altman announced plans to bring back GPT-4o.
- • User feedback highlighted discontent with the transition to GPT-5.
- • GPT-5 features enhanced capabilities, but users preferred GPT-4o's functionality.
OpenAI's recent launch of the highly anticipated GPT-5 has ignited significant backlash from its user community, particularly due to the decision to retire the older model, GPT-4o. In response to the uproar, CEO Sam Altman announced plans to bring back GPT-4o, demonstrating OpenAI's commitment to listening to its users’ needs.
On August 8, 2025, both Mashable and PCMag reported on the widespread criticism from users who felt that the retirement of GPT-4o took away valuable functionality and convenience compared to the new model. Many users expressed that the transition from GPT-4o to GPT-5 felt abrupt and unsatisfactory, leading to concerns over perceived regressions in performance in certain tasks that they relied on GPT-4o for.
Altman expressed in several statements that user feedback is crucial in guiding their decisions. He noted, “We want to ensure our users feel supported and have access to the tools that best meet their needs.” His remarks were part of a broader outreach to reassure users that their voices are influential in shaping the direction of OpenAI’s product development.
While GPT-5 introduces various enhancements and capabilities over its predecessor—reportedly providing more accurate responses and improved contextual understanding—users stated that the specific features of GPT-4o had become integral to their workflows and applications.
The community's dissatisfaction highlights a critical point in the evolution of AI models: the balance between innovation and user retention. This incident underscores the importance of user experience in the tech advancements, as the swift pace of development can sometimes alienate long-term users who have become accustomed to particular features.