Introduction to OpenAI’s Latest Updates
OpenAI has made significant changes to its ChatGPT model, responding to user feedback and concerns. The company has reinstated GPT-4o for paid accounts and introduced new features, including speed controls for GPT-5. These updates aim to provide users with more options and control over their experience.
What’s New in ChatGPT
The latest updates bring several exciting features to the table. For paid users, GPT-4o is now available in the model picker by default. Additionally, users can access more models by enabling the "Show additional models" option in Settings. This feature exposes legacy models such as o3, o4-mini, and GPT-4.1 on Plus and Team plans, and adds GPT-4.5 on Pro plans.
GPT-4o Returns
The return of GPT-4o addresses concerns that model choices disappeared without warning during the initial GPT-5 launch. Paid users can now access GPT-4o directly from the model picker, providing more flexibility and options.
New GPT-5 Modes
OpenAI’s mode picker now allows users to trade response time for reasoning depth. The new modes include Auto, Fast, and Thinking, giving users more control over their experience. According to CEO Sam Altman, "Most users will want Auto, but the additional control will be useful for some people."
Higher Capacity Thinking Mode
GPT-5 Thinking supports up to 3,000 messages per week and a 196k-token context window, making it ideal for heavier tasks. After reaching the weekly cap, chats can continue with GPT-5 Thinking mini, and OpenAI notes that limits may change over time.
Personality Updates
OpenAI is working on GPT-5’s default tone to make it feel "warmer than the current personality but not as annoying (to most users) as GPT-4o." The company acknowledges the need for more per-user personality controls, aiming to provide a more personalized experience.
How to Use the New Features
To access the extra models, users can follow these simple steps: Open ChatGPT, go to Settings, then General, and enable "Show additional models." This toggles the legacy list and Thinking mini alongside GPT-5. GPT-4o is already in the picker for paid users.
Looking Ahead
OpenAI promises to provide more notice around model availability while giving users clearer controls over speed and depth. In practice, users can try Fast for quick checks, keep Auto for routine chats, and use Thinking where accuracy and multi-step reasoning matter most. The return of GPT-4o reduces disruption for users who relied on its feel, while OpenAI tunes GPT-5’s personality and customization.
Conclusion
OpenAI’s latest updates demonstrate the company’s commitment to listening to user feedback and providing more options and control. With the return of GPT-4o and the introduction of new features, users can expect a more personalized and flexible experience. As OpenAI continues to evolve and improve its models, users can look forward to even more exciting updates and features in the future.