Users of ChatGPT have expressed dissatisfaction with OpenAI’s newly released artificial intelligence model, GPT-5. Launched on Thursday, GPT-5 combines features from the GPT series and the o-series, aimed at creating an all-encompassing model that eliminates the need for a model picker, which previously required users to select among multiple options repeatedly. With this release, OpenAI has also phased out its older models. Nonetheless, this strategy appears to have been met with criticism, particularly regarding the discontinuation of GPT-4o.
Users Demand the Return of GPT-4o
Following the release of GPT-5, numerous users took to social media to voice their concerns, claiming that the new model is inferior to GPT-4o. One Reddit user voiced their disappointment, stating that the responses generated by GPT-5 were often brief, lacking depth and character.
In an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on Reddit, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman was confronted by user u/Naddybear, who shared their extensive experience with GPT-4o, developing a specific workflow that suited their needs. The user noted the enhanced capabilities of GPT-5 in areas like complex reasoning and coding but argued that not all users require such a technical model. Many depend on GPT-4o for creative endeavors, emotional nuances, and extensive roleplay interactions. In response, Altman assured the community that OpenAI would address their concerns.
Shortly afterward, Altman announced updates via X (formerly Twitter), stating that Plus subscribers would soon benefit from increased rate limits for GPT-5, a response to users who reported reaching the limit within a short timeframe.
Furthermore, Altman confirmed that Plus subscribers would continue to have access to the GPT-4o model, although OpenAI plans to assess usage to determine how long it will remain available. He also elaborated on possible reasons for the perceived shortcomings of GPT-5.
Altman explained that the model’s “autoswitcher,” which allows real-time adjustments based on the type of query—be it reasoning, conversational, or creative—was not functioning as intended. This malfunction may have contributed to the perception that GPT-5 was less capable than expected.
To enhance user experience, OpenAI is revising its model-switching approach, aiming to deliver the appropriate model more consistently. Altman added that ChatGPT would clearly indicate which model is being used for generating responses to eliminate user confusion.
OpenAI CEO Reveals Company Operating at a Loss
In a subsequent interview with CNBC, Altman shed light on OpenAI’s financial situation post-GPT-5 launch, revealing that the company is currently operating at a loss, despite generating billions in annual revenue. He indicated that he is not overly concerned, believing that as long as the models continue to improve, incurring losses is a reasonable strategy.
Last year, OpenAI reported revenues of approximately $3.7 billion, contrasted by losses of around $5 billion. A significant portion of the company’s expenses is attributed to in-house server maintenance and costs associated with third-party server rentals. These high operational costs may have influenced the decision to phase out earlier models.
However, it seems that the previous models each offered unique capabilities that GPT-5 has not yet matched. This creates a challenging dilemma for OpenAI: while maintaining older models could exacerbate financial losses, withdrawing them risks alienating a segment of their user base.
