By Zainab Shafiq 
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has moved to ease concerns among paying customers, confirming that ChatGPT Plus subscribers will still be able to use the older GPT-4o model if they prefer it over the recently launched GPT-5. The announcement comes after widespread frustration from users who felt blindsided by the sudden replacement.
For many, the GPT-4o option was welcome news. Plus subscribers had grown attached to GPT-4o’s tone, personality, and performance, which they felt GPT-5 failed to replicate. Complaints included shorter responses, weaker task completion, and reaching usage limits more quickly than before.
On Reddit, numerous users shared similar experiences, arguing that GPT-5 lacked GPT-4o’s conversational style and struggled with tasks the previous model handled well. Some even described the new system as “less capable” and “rushed.”
Rate Limits Doubled for ChatGPT Plus Subscribers and Bug Fixes Incoming
Responding to the uproar, Altman said Plus users can stick with GPT-4o for now, with OpenAI monitoring how long to support it based on demand. In the meantime, GPT-5 rate limits for Plus users will be doubled as part of an effort to smooth the transition.
Altman also addressed a technical hiccup that worsened first impressions: an autoswitcher bug temporarily made GPT-5 seem “way dumber” than intended. While acknowledging that GPT-5’s rollout is taking longer than expected, and some users still lack access, he insisted that the model will improve over time.
The change also affects Apple users. Starting with iOS 26, Siri’s ChatGPT integration will switch to GPT-5, while continuing to rely on older ChatGPT models until the update is released.
Balancing Innovation with Familiarity
As Sam confirms GPT-4o option, this decision highlights OpenAI’s challenge of introducing major updates without alienating its existing user base. By keeping GPT-4o available, the company aims to provide stability for those who depend on its specific strengths while allowing GPT-5 time to mature.
Altman reiterated that user feedback will remain at the heart of future developments. For now, Plus subscribers have a choice, and for many, that’s the reassurance they wanted
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The Differences Between GPT-4 and GPT-5 Are More Than Just Speed