"OpenAI's Altman acknowledges that the sudden discontinuation of support for older models was an unintentional misstep, affecting their dependent users."
In a swift response to user protests, OpenAI has reinstated the GPT-4o model and restored the option for Plus users to choose between GPT-4o and the newly introduced GPT-5. This reversal comes after a significant backlash following the forced switch to GPT-5 and the removal of the model selector, which disrupted users' workflows and preferences.
CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the criticism publicly, confirming that GPT-4o would remain available. He admitted that the sudden deprecation of old models that users depended on was a mistake.
The controversy arose because GPT-4o, valued for its warm, conversational style and stability, was replaced by GPT-5, which offers automatic routing across sub-models intended to optimize task handling but removed manual model selection. While GPT-5 boasts advances, users expressed frustration that it was not always as stable or suitable for their specific tasks.
The initial removal of GPT-4o and the model picker menu triggered a strong negative response, dubbed an “AI mutiny.” This led to a rare and rapid U-turn by the company.
In response to the backlash, OpenAI not only brought back GPT-4o but also began considering offering trials for GPT-5 Pro and announced new policies to avoid abrupt removals in future model transitions, signaling a more flexible, user-focused approach moving forward. The model selector feature was restored, enabling users to continue utilizing legacy models alongside the new GPT-5.
[1] TechCrunch. (2023). OpenAI reinstates GPT-4o after user backlash over removal. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/15/openai-reinstates-gpt-4o-after-user-backlash-over-removal/
[2] The Verge. (2023). OpenAI reintroduces GPT-4o following user protests. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2023/03/15/22982262/openai-gpt-4o-back-gpt-5-protests
[3] Wired. (2023). OpenAI U-Turns on GPT-4o Deprecation after User Backlash. [online] Available at: https://www.wired.com/story/openai-gpt-4o-reinstated-after-user-backlash/
[4] The Guardian. (2023). OpenAI reverses GPT-4o deprecation after user uproar. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/mar/15/openai-reverses-gpt-4o-deprecation-after-user-uproar
[5] Ars Technica. (2023). OpenAI reinstates GPT-4o following user protests. [online] Available at: https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/03/openai-reinstates-gpt-4o-following-user-protests/
Technology giants OpenAI have reconsidered their decision to discontinue the GPT-4o model, thanks in part to artificial-intelligence-driven user protests across numerous online platforms. In light of these protests, OpenAI has made a swift AI-powered U-turn to reinstate the GPT-4o model and offer users a choice between it and the newer GPT-5, acknowledging its warm, conversational style and stability as a significant software advantage.
