OpenAI will retire GPT-4o and several other legacy models from ChatGPT on February 13, 2026, marking a major shift in the company’s AI strategy.
Quick Summary – TLDR:
- OpenAI is retiring GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and o4-mini from ChatGPT as it consolidates focus on GPT-5 models.
- GPT-4o was once celebrated for its personality and creative tone, especially by Plus and Pro users.
- GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 now include features inspired by GPT-4o’s conversational style.
- These changes do not impact OpenAI’s API, where older models remain available to developers.
What Happened?
OpenAI announced it will phase out four of its older AI models from ChatGPT on February 13. The list includes GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and OpenAI o4-mini, alongside the previously scheduled retirement of GPT-5 Instant and GPT-5 Thinking. The decision aims to streamline the user experience and drive adoption of the more advanced GPT-5.2 model.
GPT-4o’s End Marks a Sentimental Shift
GPT-4o, introduced in May 2024, was especially popular among free users for its more intuitive and emotionally warm interactions. Although usage dropped to just 0.1% of daily users, OpenAI had previously reinstated GPT-4o for Plus and Pro users based on community feedback. Many praised the model for creative ideation and conversational style, which prompted the company to refine GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 in response.
OpenAI said in a blog post:
New Customization Tools in GPT-5.2
OpenAI now offers customization options in ChatGPT, such as choosing base tones like Friendly, and adjusting controls for warmth and enthusiasm. The company says these features were directly inspired by feedback from GPT-4o users.
Other enhancements in GPT-5.2 include:
- Stronger creative ideation support.
- More flexible personality settings.
- Improved refusal logic, avoiding overly cautious or preachy responses.
No Change for API Users
The retirement affects only the ChatGPT interface, not the API access. Developers using GPT-4o and the other models in their own apps can continue to do so without interruption. OpenAI emphasized that API users will not experience any changes on this front.
More Control and Focus on Adults
OpenAI is also rolling out features aimed at giving adult users more autonomy and expressive control over how ChatGPT behaves. The company noted its vision includes creating a version of ChatGPT that is “designed for adults over 18” while maintaining appropriate safeguards. To support this shift, OpenAI has introduced age prediction tools for underage users in most markets.
Why OpenAI Is Making the Move Now?
The company says the transition is necessary because the “vast majority of usage has shifted to GPT-5.2”, and consolidating models allows the team to focus resources on what most users prefer. OpenAI stated:
SQ Magazine Takeaway
I get why this feels like a gut punch to loyal GPT-4o users. It had that rare combo of brains and warmth that made ChatGPT feel more human. But OpenAI is clearly listening. The best parts of GPT-4o are now baked into GPT-5.2, and honestly, having those customization controls is a game-changer. We’re not just getting a smarter assistant, we’re getting one that actually feels tailored to us. Still, if you were attached to GPT-4o, now’s the time to explore what’s next before it disappears for good.
