OpenAI announced it will retire several older versions of its ChatGPT models, including the widely recognized GPT-4o, on February 13, 2026. This decision impacts users who depend on these models within the ChatGPT application, as they will no longer be available for selection. Nevertheless, developers will retain access to these models via OpenAI’s API for the foreseeable future, ensuring continued functionality for applications that rely on them.
The forthcoming model retirement comes in response to user feedback, prompting OpenAI to enhance the customization capabilities of ChatGPT. Users will now be able to select from various personalities and input custom instructions, allowing for a more tailored interaction. This article aims to elucidate the implications of these changes for different groups of users and guide them in transitioning smoothly to newer models and features.
On the stipulated date, OpenAI will remove the following models from ChatGPT’s selection menu:
- GPT-4o
- GPT-4.1
- GPT-4.1 mini
- OpenAI o4-mini
While these models will no longer be accessible in the ChatGPT interface, developers will continue to have access through the API. This move follows a previous attempt to retire GPT-4o in August 2025, which was reversed due to significant user backlash coinciding with the launch of GPT-5.
The retirement primarily affects three groups: first, users who currently select GPT-4o or other retiring models will find these options unavailable in the app after February 13. Second, paid subscribers who enjoy additional model choices will lose access to the retiring models within the app but can still use them via the API. Lastly, developers whose applications depend on older models will continue to access them through the API, although future retirements could occur.
Interestingly, only about 0.1% of ChatGPT users engage with the GPT-4o model daily, indicating that the overall impact on the user base will be limited. Users familiar with GPT-4o have highlighted its warmer, friendlier tone compared to GPT-5, which is characterized by more straightforward and efficient responses. OpenAI is actively working to refine GPT-5’s personality, aiming to balance warmth and efficiency while reducing intrusiveness compared to GPT-4o.
In conjunction with the retirement of older models, OpenAI is rolling out new customization options for ChatGPT. Users can choose from seven distinct personalities and set custom instructions to personalize their interactions more effectively. This update allows both free and paid users to enhance their experience, with the latter group enjoying additional toggling capabilities between models and personalities for improved productivity and enjoyment.
For those affected by the upcoming changes, several steps can facilitate a smooth transition after February 13, 2026. Users currently utilizing GPT-4o should explore the new personality options to identify a style that aligns with their preferences. Familiarizing oneself with GPT-5’s capabilities will also be essential, as the new model promises improved performance while evolving to better match user tone preferences. Developers are encouraged to update their applications to support GPT-5 or other newer models while being aware that older models will remain available through the API for now. Staying informed about OpenAI’s announcements will also be crucial for all user groups.
OpenAI is undertaking this retirement to streamline the ChatGPT experience and focus on the continual improvement of newer models like GPT-5. This strategic move aims to optimize resources and enhance the performance and features offered to users. Free users, as well as those on paid subscriptions, will lose access to the older models, but since only a small percentage actively utilize them, the overall impact remains minimal.
As the February 13 deadline approaches, users and developers alike are urged to prepare for these changes. Experimentation with the new personality features should commence now to identify the most suitable options. Developers should plan to migrate their applications to newer models and monitor OpenAI’s updates for any future changes. By adopting a proactive approach, users can ensure a seamless transition and fully leverage the evolving capabilities of ChatGPT.
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