Background

OpenAI announced on its blog that on February 13, 2026 it will retire GPT‑4o, GPT‑4.1, GPT‑4.1 mini, and OpenAI o4-mini from ChatGPT. This marks the second permanent retirement of GPT‑4o after the model was initially retired in August, briefly reinstated due to user backlash, and then kept alive for a limited time.

User Reaction

The latest announcement has reignited disappointment among a dedicated segment of ChatGPT users. On Reddit, some users expressed intentions to start petitions and even consider canceling their subscriptions. Critics highlighted that GPT‑4o offered a unique blend of performance, personality, warmth, and consistency that they had integrated into creative projects, emotional‑support routines, and study workflows. The small user base, which OpenAI notes represents roughly 0.1% of daily usage, feels the removal is abrupt and deeply disappointing.

OpenAI’s Rationale

OpenAI explained that the release of GPT‑5.1 and GPT‑5.2 has addressed many of the concerns that led users to prefer GPT‑4o. The company argues that the vast majority of usage has already shifted to GPT‑5.2, which includes built‑in controls for styles, tones, warmth, and enthusiasm—features that were praised in GPT‑4o. OpenAI emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly but will allow the organization to concentrate on improving the models most people use today.

Future Outlook

While OpenAI remains confident that GPT‑5.2 meets the standards set by GPT‑4o, it acknowledges that the retirement may feel frustrating to the remaining users. The company has not indicated any plans to provide a legacy mode or fallback for GPT‑4o. Observers will watch to see whether the newer model can satisfy the niche preferences that kept GPT‑4o’s small but passionate community engaged.

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