August 13, 2025 • News
OpenAI's latest ChatGPT update highlights how rapidly AI tools are evolving. With the launch of GPT-5, OpenAI initially introduced a "unified" model that would decide how to answer user questions behind the scenes. The idea was to eliminate the need for users to pick between different AI engines. However, after the rollout it became clear that many people still wanted a say in how ChatGPT responds to their queries. In response, OpenAI has added back a menu of model options that users can directly select. These options let people control the tone, speed and style of ChatGPT’s answers more directly than before.
GPT-5 represents a major upgrade under the hood. OpenAI says the new model can handle complex queries with expert-level knowledge in areas like software development, finance and scientific research. Demos show GPT-5 generating complete working software from simple text instructions — a capability often called "vibe coding" — and solving advanced math or science problems more easily than previous versions. These improvements make ChatGPT useful for professional and business tasks, not just casual conversation. Some analysts note that GPT-5 feels more knowledgeable and capable, although the jump from GPT-4 still seems more incremental than revolutionary.
Rather than hiding all decision-making in one algorithm, OpenAI now offers different modes of operation that users can choose. This change lets people prioritize speed or depth in ChatGPT’s answers. Specifically, GPT-5 users can pick between the following options:
These options mean that advanced users can override the default router if they prefer a faster or more thorough response. For example, if an instant answer is needed, "Fast" mode cuts down on processing time. If a question requires deep analysis, "Thinking" mode lets GPT-5 spend more time crafting the reply. And by restoring the older model choices, the update preserves the familiar tones that users had come to expect from previous ChatGPT versions. Overall, this approach combines GPT-5’s enhanced power with the user control of the previous model picker, satisfying both advanced and casual users.
The decision to bring back the model selector came after user feedback. Many ChatGPT users had grown attached to the distinctive personalities of GPT-4o and other older models, and they were unhappy when those options disappeared. OpenAI listened and responded quickly by restoring those choices. Now, everyone can access GPT-5’s new capabilities while still having the familiar GPT-4o model as the default. OpenAI’s team even said they will tweak GPT-5’s voice to feel a bit warmer. This response shows that OpenAI is listening to its community and that user preferences can shape AI development.
OpenAI seems to be moving toward even more user control. Company leaders have mentioned plans for per-user customization, meaning people could tailor the assistant’s personality in future updates. For instance, you might be able to adjust a slider to make ChatGPT more formal, friendly or concise. The new model modes and options are early steps toward that goal. Instead of a one-size-fits-all AI, each person could eventually shape ChatGPT to their liking. By introducing these choices now, OpenAI is laying the foundation for a more personalized AI experience.
ChatGPT remains one of the most widely used AI services in the world, with hundreds of millions of users. Changes to its interface and capabilities ripple across the industry. For regular users, having a choice of model makes the chatbot more approachable and satisfying. For businesses and developers, GPT-5’s stronger code-writing and problem-solving skills open new doors for automating work. These updates arrive as AI competition is hotter than ever – rivals like Google’s Gemini and Anthropic’s Claude are also moving fast. In this heated environment, even small changes to ChatGPT’s design can have big effects. Ultimately, offering users more choice may help keep ChatGPT at the forefront of AI innovation.