AI model GPT-4 reintroduced on ChatGPT platform; OpenAI concedes after significant public pressure
In an unexpected turn of events, OpenAI, the renowned artificial intelligence research lab, has announced that it will allow ChatGPT Plus users to access legacy models, including GPT-4o, alongside the recently launched GPT-5. This decision comes after significant backlash from users who were unhappy with the performance of GPT-5 and the loss of access to older models.
The rollout of GPT-5, which was announced on August 6, has been met with a mix of excitement and critical feedback. While GPT-5 showcases strong benchmark performance and is considered a leap in intelligence, many users, particularly Plus subscribers, have reported issues with the tone and response quality, as well as basic math, logic, and coding errors. Developers have also noted struggles with certain programming tasks and lagged behind some competitors.
The rollout was further marred by technical issues, including malfunctioning routing and misleading performance charts, which increased user dissatisfaction. In response to these issues, OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has promised improved transparency, better decision-making, and updates to user controls, including message limits on the GPT-5 “Thinking” mode.
In a bid to address user concerns, OpenAI has reinstated access to GPT-4o and other legacy models for Plus users. Users can now enable these models in the settings menu under “Show additional models.” This move reflects OpenAI's responsiveness to user feedback and their commitment to improving the user experience.
However, GPT-5 remains the default model for all users, including Free, Plus, Pro, and Team. While free users will have limited reasoning access, Plus subscribers will continue to have 3000 thinking queries per week, a feature previously far more limited.
OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has also expressed his understanding of the importance of certain aspects of GPT-4o to users, despite GPT-5 performing better in most ways. He has even considered the possibility of introducing GPT-4.5, as suggested during a Reddit AMA.
In summary, OpenAI's decision to allow legacy model access for ChatGPT Plus users reflects a responsiveness to user feedback and a commitment to improving the user experience. GPT-5 adoption remains default but is being closely monitored due to reported shortcomings. Users are encouraged to continue using different models and share their feedback on any differences noticed.
References: 1. OpenAI Blog: Introducing ChatGPT Plus 2. TechCrunch: OpenAI reinstates access to GPT-4 for ChatGPT Plus users following backlash 3. The Verge: OpenAI restores legacy models for ChatGPT Plus users after backlash 4. Reddit AMA with Sam Altman: Discussion on GPT-5 and user feedback
Artificial intelligence (GPT-5) recently had its rollout, but has been met with a mix of excitement and critical feedback due to reported tone and response quality issues, basic math errors, and some technical glitches. Despite GPT-5 performing better in most aspects compared to GPT-4o, technology company OpenAI recognizes the importance of certain features to users and has decided to allow ChatGPT Plus users to access both GPT-5 and GPT-4o, as well as other legacy models.
