OpenAI’s GPT-5 was supposed to simplify the ChatGPT experience with an intelligent “model router” that automatically picked the best AI for each query. Instead, the company has brought back — and even expanded — the model picker. Users now have “Auto,” “Fast,” and “Thinking” modes for GPT-5, plus access to older favorites like GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, and o3. The move follows backlash from fans of legacy models and performance issues with GPT-5’s router on launch day. OpenAI leaders acknowledge they still need to refine personalization, as human attachment to specific AI models proves stronger than expected.

Key Points:

• GPT-5 launched as a unified model with an automatic router to remove the need for a model picker.
• New GPT-5 modes — Auto, Fast, and Thinking — give users manual control again.
• Paid users can now access older models like GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, and o3, despite their recent deprecation.
• Backlash followed GPT-4o’s removal, with many users attached to specific models’ personalities.
• GPT-5’s router had issues at launch, with users reporting weaker performance than earlier models.
• OpenAI plans to make GPT-5’s personality “warmer” but “less annoying” than GPT-4o.
• VP of ChatGPT, Nick Turley, says quick iteration is a strength, even if version one isn’t perfect.
• Aligning AI behavior to individual user preferences remains a difficult challenge.
• Human attachment to AI models is becoming a real phenomenon — with examples like a “funeral” for Anthropic’s Claude 3.5 Sonnet.

Key Quotes:

• Sam Altman: “We are working on an update to GPT-5’s personality which should feel warmer than the current personality but not as annoying (to most users) as GPT-4o… we really just need to get to a world with more per-user customization of model personality.”
• Nick Turley: “We’re not always going to get everything on try #1 but I am very proud of how quickly the team can iterate.”

Implications:

• GPT-5’s failure to replace the model picker suggests automated AI routing still can’t meet diverse user needs.
• OpenAI is acknowledging the emotional connection users form with AI personalities, a factor that could shape future product design.
• The return of legacy models shows the company’s need to balance innovation with customer loyalty.
• Personalization — not just speed or accuracy — may become the next battleground for AI platform competition.
• As human-AI relationships deepen, managing the psychological and social impacts of these tools will be increasingly important.

Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/12/chatgpts-model-picker-is-back-and-its-complicated/