OpenAI Brings GPT-4o Back For Paid ChatGPT Users
OpenAI has restored GPT-4o to the ChatGPT model selector for paid users following its sudden disappearance during the initial GPT-5 rollout.
After receiving feedback from users about GPT-5’s release, OpenAI has restored GPT-4o to ChatGPT’s model selection tool for accounts with paid subscriptions. OpenAI also pledged to let users know in advance before eliminating models in the near future.
The announcement was confirmed along with the introduction of new control of speed for GPT-5, which allows users to switch between Auto, Fast, or Thinking” modes for customized responses.
GPT-4o Makes a Comeback
For subscribers who pay, GPT-4o will now appear by default on the interface for selecting models, and is restored to a model that is favored due to its warmer, softer tone.
Other models from the past, like o3, o4 mini, and 4.1, are also available via an updated Show Additional Models switch in settings. GPT-4.5 is only available to Pro users due to its more expensive computational cost.
New GPT-5 Modes Offer Flexibility
OpenAI has introduced new controls for speed and reasoning for GPT-5 users. They allow users to choose between Auto, Fast, and the Thinking modes.
CEO Sam Altman suggests:
“You can now choose between ‘Auto’, ‘Fast’, and ‘Thinking’ for GPT-5. Most users will want Auto, but the additional control will be useful for some people.”
This flexibility allows users to manage response speed and reasoning depth in accordance with the needs of the task.
Extended Capacity for Complex Tasks
The GPT-5’s Thinking mode can handle up to 3000 messages per week, with the frame of context that spans 196,000 tokens, ideal for examining massive reports or a variety of content assets at once.
Once the limit is reached, users can continue to communicate via the GPT-5 Think mini and have limits that are subject to change in the future.
Personality Enhancements on the Horizon
OpenAI acknowledges user feedback regarding GPT-5’s tone and promises that GPT-5’s default personality will change to be “warmer than the current personality but not as annoying (to most users) as GPT-4o.”
The company is also looking into more personalization options for each user to make it more suited to the individual’s preferences.
How to Access the Updated Models
Users can turn on visibility for other models by opening ChatGPT and then going into Settings, then General, and then enabling Show additional models.
This will show models from the past and GPT-5 Thinking mini. GPT-4o is available automatically for paid plans.
Moving Forward
OpenAI is aiming to minimize disruption by keeping the most popular models while introducing new ones and giving users more control over their AI experience.
For professionals, it means that the conventional GPT-4 model is still available for projects that require its distinctive conversational style. The new GPT-5 controls improve the efficiency and accuracy of complicated projects.
Personal Take
OpenAI’s commitment to clear and transparent communication and personalization will result in a more personalized method of managing AI model transitions, which will help to ensure efficiency as technology continues to develop.
