Massive Backlash: GPT-5’s Cold New Personality

Hand holding digital AI and ChatGPT graphics.

Amidst user outcry, OpenAI’s latest move threatens to sideline emotional intelligence in AI, challenging the balance between innovation and user experience.

Story Overview

OpenAI faces backlash over GPT-5’s perceived lack of warmth.
Users express frustration over the removal of GPT-4o.
OpenAI introduces new personality modes in GPT-5 to address concerns.

User Backlash Over GPT-5’s Tone

With the release of GPT-5 in August 2025, OpenAI encountered significant criticism from its user base. Many users reported that the new model lacked the emotional warmth and nuanced personality of its predecessor, GPT-4o. This shift in tone, perceived as colder and more utilitarian, sparked dissatisfaction among users who valued the empathetic nature of GPT-4o. The abrupt removal of GPT-4o, despite prior assurances of its availability, further fueled frustration.

OpenAI’s Response and New Features

In response to the backlash, OpenAI’s CEO announced updates to GPT-5, introducing four new personality modes: Cynic, Robot, Listener, and Nerd. These modes allow users to customize the chatbot’s tone, with the “Listener” mode specifically designed to restore the warmth and empathy that users felt were missing. This move highlights OpenAI’s commitment to addressing user feedback and enhancing emotional intelligence in AI interactions.

This development showcases a growing trend in the AI industry, where user experience and emotional intelligence are becoming key differentiators. By allowing users to tailor the model’s personality, OpenAI aims to bridge the gap between technological advancement and user attachment to previous models.

Implications for AI Development

The tension between efficiency and emotional nuance in AI design poses ongoing challenges for developers. While the introduction of customizable personality modes is a positive step, some users remain skeptical of engineered personalities fully replacing the organic warmth of earlier models. This situation underscores the importance of transparency and reliability in AI product management, particularly concerning user trust and continuity of features. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, balancing technical prowess with emotional resonance will be crucial.

OpenAI’s rapid response to user feedback demonstrates the evolving priorities in AI development, where emotional intelligence and user-driven customization are gaining prominence. This incident may influence industry standards, prompting competitors to prioritize emotional nuance in their models as well.