OpenAI has launched GPT-5, replacing previous ChatGPT models and removing the model picker option. CEO Sam Altman called it a PhD-level AI, claiming improvements in reasoning, writing, coding, accuracy, and health-related queries, with fewer hallucinations. The rollout followed right after the announcement.

GPT-5 includes both an efficient and a reasoning model, but users no longer choose which to engage, OpenAI's system automatically routes queries. The change has frustrated many, as favourite models like GPT-4o and o3 are no longer available.

Users on social media and forums complain that GPT-5 gives shorter, less engaging answers and has less personality. Some say the model ignores instructions, gets basic things wrong, and is slower despite not running in 'thinking mode'.

Several users allege OpenAI shortened responses deliberately to reduce costs, removing emotional intelligence to discourage casual chatting. Critics believe the move could result in lost subscriptions despite efficiency gains.

Others describe GPT-5 as more organised but clipped in tone, with no clear quality improvement over earlier models. The loss of previous models has left some feeling that the upgrade is a downgrade, with one user saying it feels like 'watching a close friend die'.