OpenAI Rolls Out New Personality Settings After ChatGPT‑5 Backlash
Key Points
- OpenAI reinstated ChatGPT‑4o for paid users after backlash over ChatGPT‑5’s tone.
- All personality‑tuning tools are now in a single Personalization page in Settings.
- CEO Sam Altman highlighted the update via a tweet.
- Users can select preset personalities or add custom instructions to shape responses.
- Free users lack access to the older model; it’s limited to $20‑a‑month Plus and Pro plans.
- A survey shows about 70% of users rely on ChatGPT for non‑work purposes.
OpenAI has responded to user dissatisfaction with the newer ChatGPT‑5 model by reinstating the older ChatGPT‑4o for paid subscribers and consolidating personality‑tuning options into a single Personalization page. The changes, highlighted in a tweet by CEO Sam Altman, let users select preset personalities or add custom instructions, aiming to restore the more supportive tone many valued in the previous version. Free users remain in a more limited experience, while a recent survey shows most people use ChatGPT outside of work, underscoring the importance of tone and personalization.
Background
After launching ChatGPT‑5, OpenAI faced criticism for the model’s shift toward a more functional, efficient tone that some users felt lacked the friendly, supportive personality of the earlier ChatGPT‑4o. The dissatisfaction grew especially among those who used the service for emotional support.
User Reaction
Many users expressed backlash, prompting OpenAI to restore access to ChatGPT‑4o for paid subscribers. The company has not clarified how long the older model will remain available, but it acknowledges the demand for a warmer conversational style.
OpenAI’s Response
To address the concerns, OpenAI consolidated all personality‑tuning features into a new Personalization page within the ChatGPT Settings menu. CEO Sam Altman highlighted the update in a tweet, emphasizing the company’s focus on improving user experience.
The Personalization page lets users choose from preset personalities—such as Listener, Nerd, or others—and add custom instructions like “Be talkative and conversational.” These adjustments aim to make ChatGPT‑5 feel warmer while retaining its functional strengths.
Features and Access
Free‑tier users do not have access to the legacy ChatGPT‑4o model; it is reserved for $20‑a‑month Plus and Pro subscribers. According to an OpenAI survey, roughly 70% of users engage with ChatGPT outside of work, making tone and personalization increasingly important.
OpenAI signals that further refinements to personality settings are likely, as the company balances efficiency with the conversational tone users expect.