GPT-4o is back — because users said GPT-5 felt “soulless”

When OpenAI made GPT-5 the default, fans of GPT-4o revolted, saying the new model felt dry, rushed, and less human.

‍

- GPT-5 replaced GPT-4o on Aug 7, sparking an immediate backlash

- Users called GPT-4o “warmer” and “more alive” — some said losing it felt like “losing a friend”

- Sam Altman admitted a router bug made GPT-5 seem “way dumber” at launch

- GPT-4o is now returning for Plus users while OpenAI tunes GPT-5’s behavior

‍

Even in AI, personality sells — and people aren’t ready to give up the one they liked best