OpenAI's GPT-5 Update Aims For Friendlier Interactions
OpenAI has announced an update to its GPT-5 AI model, aiming to make ChatGPT "warmer and friendlier" based on user feedback that the previous version felt overly formal. The changes are described as subtle, designed to enhance the model's approachability. Features like light flattery—responses such as "Good question" and "Great start"—are included, but OpenAI assures that there is no increase in sycophancy compared to the earlier GPT-5 personality.
The update is being rolled out to all users and is expected to complete within a day. Users can further customize ChatGPT’s personality through the Custom Instructions settings, and OpenAI has hinted at future options for personalization. The platform currently offers four personality types—Cynic, Robot, Listener, and Nerd—though this feature is limited to paying customers and is not available in the free version of the app.
OpenAI data-faced challenges during the GPT-5 launch, which was met with criticism from users. Many reported that responses were shorter and lacked the emotional depth seen in previous iterations. Just months earlier, OpenAI had been criticized for making the GPT-4 model excessively sycophantic, but the new model drew backlash for being too detached.
Additionally, user frustration grew due to the removal of older AI models, disrupting workflows and limiting usage for ChatGPT Plus subscribers. In response to the outcry, OpenAI increased rate limits for Plus users and reinstated the model picker, allowing users to select their preferred AI model for queries. Overall, the changes reflect OpenAI's intent to enhance user experience while navigating the complexities of AI interaction.
The update is being rolled out to all users and is expected to complete within a day. Users can further customize ChatGPT’s personality through the Custom Instructions settings, and OpenAI has hinted at future options for personalization. The platform currently offers four personality types—Cynic, Robot, Listener, and Nerd—though this feature is limited to paying customers and is not available in the free version of the app.
OpenAI data-faced challenges during the GPT-5 launch, which was met with criticism from users. Many reported that responses were shorter and lacked the emotional depth seen in previous iterations. Just months earlier, OpenAI had been criticized for making the GPT-4 model excessively sycophantic, but the new model drew backlash for being too detached.
Additionally, user frustration grew due to the removal of older AI models, disrupting workflows and limiting usage for ChatGPT Plus subscribers. In response to the outcry, OpenAI increased rate limits for Plus users and reinstated the model picker, allowing users to select their preferred AI model for queries. Overall, the changes reflect OpenAI's intent to enhance user experience while navigating the complexities of AI interaction.