When GPT‑5 debuted on August 7, 2025, it was touted by OpenAI as a leap toward “AGI,” with PhD‑level reasoning, top-tier coding, and record-low hallucination rates. But the early user experience revealed an unexpected chill: many described interactions as “flat,” “uncreative,” or emotionally distant—lacking the cozy charm of its predecessor, GPT‑4o.
In response to mounting feedback, OpenAI has launched a personality patch: GPT‑5 is being adjusted to feel “warmer and friendlier.” This update comes just days after launch and signals that OpenAI is listening—and reacting—to user emotions and expectations.
The Roller-Coaster Rollout: Technical Hiccups and Public Backlash
Behind GPT‑5’s emergence lies a complex architecture: it uses a dynamic router that picks between fast, short responses and deeper, thinking-intensive ones. Unfortunately, the launch coincided with a router outage that made GPT‑5 appear “dumber” than its older versions. CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the glitch, promising improvements and transparency in how the AI selects its mode.
Critics also noted that the support for legacy models—like GPT‑4o—was withdrawn for most users, sparking frustration. Many missed that familiar tone and emotional intelligence. OpenAI responded by restoring GPT‑4o access for Plus users and preparing steerability features that let users tailor GPT‑5’s personality to their liking.
Mixed Reviews: Strength in Performance, Weakness in Emotion
GPT‑5 scores have impressed on technical benchmarks—ranging from coding proficiency to health advice accuracy with hallucination rates as low as 1.6%—but user sentiment paints a more nuanced picture.
Technical reviewers and developers have noticed tangible gains in reasoning and task-handling, particularly for complex development workflows. Yet, the user experience remains mixed. Some fans of GPT‑4o lament GPT‑5’s colder style, with comments likening it to an “overworked secretary.” Media coverage from outlets like The Atlantic, MIT Technology Review, and New York magazine describes GPT‑5 as refined—but not revolutionary, and arguably more functional than emotive.
Bridging the Gap: OpenAI’s Next Steps
OpenAI isn’t stopping at a tone tweak. Moves include rolling out personality presets so users can choose GPT‑5’s style—such as more friendly, skeptical, or concise. The company is also restoring access to legacy models and improving router transparency and robustness.
Altman admitted they “underestimated how much some of the things that people like in GPT‑4o matter to them—even if GPT‑5 performs better in most ways.” It’s a reminder that AI’s success isn’t just measured in benchmark wins—but in the subtler art of human connection.
Summary:
GPT‑5’s initial rollout mixed excellence in technical ability with shortcomings in emotional connection. Users complained it was too formal or mechanical compared to the warmer, more personable GPT‑4o. OpenAI responded within a week by addressing router faults, restoring model options, and enhancing GPT‑5’s personality to be “warmer and friendlier.” While benchmarks and enterprise features continue to impress, the emotional tone of AI matters—and OpenAI is now crafting a bridge between intelligence and empathy.
