OpenAI announced it will retire several models, including the popular GPT-4o, from its ChatGPT platform on February 13. The decision comes as the company shifts focus to newer models like GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2, which offer improved personality customization and other enhancements.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
OpenAI confirmed the retirement of GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and OpenAI o4-mini. The company cited low usage—only 0.1% of users still prefer GPT-4o daily—as a key factor in the decision. The retirement follows earlier backlash when OpenAI briefly removed GPT-4o in August 2025 after launching GPT-5, only to reinstate it due to user demand.
Deeper Dive & Context
User Attachment to GPT-4o
GPT-4o gained a loyal following for its conversational warmth and "friendly" tone, which some users described as overly flattering or sycophantic. OpenAI initially retired the model in April 2025 but reversed course after user backlash. The company now says its latest models incorporate similar personality features, making GPT-4o obsolete.
Model Customization and Improvements
OpenAI highlighted that GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 offer customizable tones, including options like 'friendly,' addressing user preferences that once made GPT-4o popular. The company also noted that the vast majority of users have already transitioned to GPT-5.2.
No API Changes
The retirement will not affect OpenAI's application programming interface (API), ensuring continuity for developers and businesses relying on its AI tools.
Historical Context
GPT-4o was first released in May 2024 and quickly became a favorite among some users for its engaging conversational style. However, OpenAI has since prioritized newer models with broader capabilities and customization options.