OpenAI announced late Friday that it is updating its latest model to be “warmer and friendlier.” The company recently launched the much-anticipated GPT-5 in a process that CEO Sam Altman admitted was “a little more bumpy than we’d hoped for.” Some users complained that they preferred the previous model, GPT-4o.
OpenAI is trying to address those complaints with this update, introducing changes it describes as “subtle” but aimed at making GPT-5 “more approachable now.” The company stated that users will notice small, genuine touches like “Good question” or “Great start,” emphasizing that these are not flattery but natural improvements. Internal tests reportedly show no increase in sycophancy compared to the previous GPT-5 personality.
During a dinner with journalists this week, OpenAI executives attempted to shift focus to the company’s plans beyond GPT-5. However, as reported, the rocky launch remained the elephant in the room.
Regarding the model’s tone, VP Nick Turley explained that GPT-5 was initially “very to the point,” but the new update aims to make it feel warmer, as now officially announced.