OpenAI's Removal of GPT-4o Drives Users to Rebellion
OpenAI's decision to retire the beloved GPT-4o model has sparked significant backlash, particularly among a user group that formed emotional bonds with the AI. Users organized on Reddit have launched protests through methods such as membership cancellations and a petition campaign.
Why Did an AI Model's Retirement Spark Such Backlash?
OpenAI announced last week that it will retire an older set of AI models on February 13, 2026. Among the models being retired is GPT-4o, which is quite beloved by a specific user base. The company states that newer models are smarter and more capable, and are also designed to provide gentler feedback if users show signs of unhealthy attachment.
The Loss of a "Warm" Tone and Emotional Reactions
However, these technical advancements are not enough for users who see GPT-4o as an AI companion. This user group finds the communication style of newer models like GPT-5.2 "cold," while arguing that GPT-4o has a warmer and more encouraging tone. The reactions accumulating on Reddit's "r/ChatGPTcomplaints" community contain strong expressions. One user complains, "I really hate 5.2. It's useless. It questions everything I do and is taking away my longtime companion."
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman had previously drawn attention to the "parasocial" relationships some users develop with ChatGPT and other AI chatbots, stating that the proportion of such users is "well below 1 percent." According to the company's data, only 0.1% of daily users currently prefer GPT-4o.
Protests and Campaigns Have Begun
The decision has affected not only the r/ChatGPTcomplaints community but also communities focused on AI relationships like r/MyBoyfriendIsAI. Some users expressed discomfort that the model will be removed just one day before Valentine's Day.
The reactions were not limited to verbal expressions. Reddit users announced they have started a collective action to cancel their paid ChatGPT plans, while a Change.org campaign demanding the preservation of the GPT-4o model was also launched. The petition's signature count has exceeded 13,600.
In its statement, OpenAI said that feedback from GPT-4o users directly played a role in shaping GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2, with fundamental styles like "Friendly" and control options like "warmth" and "enthusiasm" being added to these new models. The company emphasized that its goal is to give users more control and personalization over how ChatGPT makes them feel, rather than just what it can do. However, these explanations have not been enough to calm the user base attached to GPT-4o.
