GPT-5 launched, and the internet said no?

After months of anticipation and a delayed launch, GPT-5 finally arrived for ChatGPT users.

…But less than 24 hours later, OpenAI was already rolling back part of the update.

When GPT-5 launched, it fully replaced GPT-4o, leaving no way to switch back.

That decision didn’t go down well.

Many users said they missed GPT-4o’s personality and more conversational tone, describing GPT-5 as technically stronger but “colder” and more mechanical.

Social media is filled with posts calling for GPT-4’s return, with some even threatening to cancel subscriptions.

Not only that, but a huge influx of users at launch meant that GPT-5 was actually… dumber than it should have been.

CEO Sam Altman said this was an error due to capacity and that it should now be behaving as intended.

On Reddit, users compared its removal to “losing a trusted friend.”

The next day, Altman confirmed GPT-4o would return as an option for Plus subscribers, though its future availability will depend on how many people use it.

GPT-5 promises stronger reasoning, faster coding help, and improved long-form writing.

But the reaction highlights that performance isn’t everything; many people form a connection with the way an AI “thinks” and interacts.

For now, Plus subscribers get the choice: GPT-5 for top-tier performance, or GPT-4o for a warmer, more familiar voice.

Imagine ending up with a GPT that never laughs at your jokes. No, just no.