OpenAI has officially unveiled GPT-5, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of its artificial intelligence products. This announcement comes alongside a host of updates aimed at enhancing the performance and user experience of ChatGPT.
Here is an overview of the new features and changes that will be implemented in ChatGPT.
Elimination of the Model Picker
With the introduction of GPT-5, OpenAI has eliminated the model picker and phased out several older models like GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, and GPT-4.5. ChatGPT is now powered by GPT-5 by default, employing a new “single auto-switching system” that seamlessly merges the various models into a more efficient and intelligent format, reducing the necessity for users to change models for specific tasks.
Nonetheless, users subscribed to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Team plans retain access to a model picker, which allows for toggling between GPT-5 and GPT-5 Thinking. Furthermore, Pro and Team users will gain access to the feature known as GPT-Thinking Pro.
ChatGPT Receives New “Personalities”
A notable enhancement to ChatGPT includes the addition of four distinct “personalities” that influence how the AI interacts through text responses. OpenAI has provided descriptions of each personality:
Cynic: Characterized by sarcasm and dry humor, this personality delivers straightforward assistance with a touch of wit, often providing practical answers through teasing.
Robot: Focused on precision and efficiency, this personality provides direct responses devoid of extraneous language.
Listener: Exhibiting warmth and a relaxed demeanor, this personality reflects user thoughts back with clarity and lightheartedness.
Nerd: Playful and inquisitive, this personality articulates complex concepts clearly while expressing enthusiasm for knowledge and exploration.
These personalities offer an entertaining twist to user interactions. For those preferring the traditional style, the default ChatGPT setting remains available.
Enhanced Vibe Coding Functionality
The functionality known as vibe coding, where AI constructs code from natural language prompts, has seen substantial improvements in ChatGPT. OpenAI claims that the latest GPT-5 is more adept at interpreting intricate and descriptive prompts for building applications or websites. Users can engage with a preview of the AI-generated outputs by accessing Canvas.
Enhanced Customization Options
OpenAI is introducing new customization features for the ChatGPT interface. Users can now select an accent color that alters the appearance of conversation bubbles, the voice button, and highlighted text.
To customize on the web, users can click their profile icon, navigate to Settings > General, and choose an option from the Accent color drop-down list. Similar adjustments can be made on mobile by tapping the profile photo, heading to Personalization, and selecting Color Scheme.
Adaptive Advanced Voice Mode
The advanced voice mode in ChatGPT, which enables more natural conversational interactions, is receiving an update for paid users. This will enhance its ability to understand user instructions and will allow subscribers to adjust its speaking style.
OpenAI will discontinue standard voice mode, instead offering near-unlimited access to the advanced voice mode for paid users, while also providing additional usage time for free users. The advanced voice mode is also compatible with custom GPTs.
Streamlined Integration with Gmail and Google Calendar
Additionally, ChatGPT now simplifies the process of linking your Gmail and Google Calendar accounts. During prompts like “help me plan my schedule for tomorrow,” the AI will request to connect your Gmail or Calendar. Following the linkage, ChatGPT will assist with scheduling, email notifications, and more.
This integration feature is set to roll out for Pro users next week, followed by other subscription tiers.
Correction, August 8th: An earlier version of this article indicated that ChatGPT could switch between OpenAI’s previous models, which was incorrect. It only switches between models within GPT-5.
