OpenAI’s GPT-5 Launch Stumbles | User Outcry Forces Quick Reversal, 4o Returns to ChatGPT
Key Takeaways
- OpenAI officially launched GPT-5, touted for enhanced reasoning, safer design, and the ability to generate ‘software-on-demand’.
- The company initially removed popular predecessor models like GPT-4o and o3 from ChatGPT, causing widespread user dismay.
- Following significant user backlash and a “bumpy” rollout, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman confirmed that GPT-4o would be made available again as an option for paid users.
Main Developments
Today, the AI world witnessed a dramatic sequence of events from its leading innovator, OpenAI, as the highly anticipated GPT-5 made its official debut. Hailed as a significant leap forward, GPT-5 was launched with promises of a maturing AI ecosystem, boasting safer design principles, more robust reasoning capabilities, expanded developer tooling, and broad user access. Perhaps its most intriguing new feature is the capacity for “software-on-demand” generation, hinting at a future where AI can dynamically create and deploy code based on user needs.
However, the initial excitement surrounding GPT-5’s release was swiftly overshadowed by a torrent of user complaints. In a move that blindsided many, OpenAI opted to fully replace all existing models on ChatGPT with GPT-5, effectively pulling popular workhorse models like GPT-4o and o3 from user access. This abrupt change sent shockwaves through the user base, many of whom relied on these earlier models for critical tasks and had built workflows around their specific functionalities. The online reaction was immediate and vocal, with users expressing widespread dismay and even “mourning” the loss of their preferred AI companions. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), and Reddit quickly became forums for user frustration, culminating in a “spicy” Reddit AMA where users peppered OpenAI with demands for the return of their beloved models.
The pressure mounted rapidly, forcing OpenAI to address the escalating crisis. Less than 24 hours after the initial rollout, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman took to X to acknowledge the “bumpy” launch and confirm that the company would reverse course. “We will let Plus users choose to continue to use 4o,” Altman stated, a direct response to the overwhelming user sentiment. VentureBeat AI, which had earlier reported on the user dismay and the removal of models, quickly followed up with news of OpenAI returning the old models, highlighting the swift concession.
This rapid about-face underscores the delicate balance between innovation and user experience in the fast-paced AI landscape. While GPT-5 represents a powerful step forward, the incident raises questions about OpenAI’s rollout strategy and its understanding of user dependence on established models. The enterprise API, notably, remained unaffected by the changes, suggesting a more cautious approach for business clients, but consumer-facing ChatGPT users experienced the full brunt of the experimental deployment. The coming days will be critical for OpenAI to demonstrate that GPT-5 isn’t merely an incremental update but a genuine, user-friendly leap forward, capable of winning back the trust of its dedicated community.
Analyst’s View
Today’s events offer a stark reminder that even industry leaders like OpenAI are not immune to user sentiment, especially when their products are deeply embedded in daily workflows. The immediate and widespread backlash against the removal of GPT-4o highlights the profound reliance and even emotional attachment users have developed towards these AI models. OpenAI’s swift reversal, while commendable for its responsiveness, also suggests a potential miscalculation in their rollout strategy – perhaps rushing GPT-5 to market without adequately considering user migration or the importance of choice. Going forward, the AI community will be watching closely to see if GPT-5 lives up to its “software-on-demand” promise and if OpenAI can mend its relationship with its vocal user base. This incident serves as a crucial lesson in balancing ambitious innovation with practical user experience in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Source Material
- OpenAI launches GPT-5, nano, mini and Pro — not AGI, but capable of generating ‘software-on-demand’ (VentureBeat AI)
- ChatGPT is bringing back 4o as an option because people missed it (The Verge AI)
- ChatGPT users dismayed as OpenAI pulls popular models GPT-4o, o3 and more — enterprise API remains (for now) (VentureBeat AI)
- OpenAI returns old models to ChatGPT as Sam Altman admits ‘bumpy’ GPT-5 rollout (VentureBeat AI)
- Sam Altman addresses ‘bumpy’ GPT-5 rollout, bringing 4o back, and the ‘chart crime’ (TechCrunch AI)