OpenAI Removes GPT-4o Model, Sparks Global User Backlash

New Delhi,

OpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman, has officially removed the GPT-4o AI model from its ChatGPT application. The move has triggered strong reactions from users around the world, particularly in China, where many had formed an emotional connection with the model.

According to a report by Wired, a significant number of users viewed GPT-4o as more than just a digital tool. For some, it served as an emotional support system or even a “romantic companion.”

Previous Removal Attempt Faced Protests

This is not the first time OpenAI has attempted to phase out GPT-4o. In August 2025, the company initially announced its discontinuation. However, the decision faced immediate backlash from users who described the model as more empathetic and emotionally intelligent compared to newer versions.

Following online protests, OpenAI temporarily restored GPT-4o access for paid subscribers. On February 13, however, the company removed it again. Reports suggest that API access for developers will also be discontinued soon.

Study Reveals Emotional Attachment

Huiqian Lai, a researcher at Syracuse University, analyzed approximately 1,500 posts on X (formerly Twitter) after the model first went offline. The findings revealed:

• More than 33% of posts described GPT-4o as more than just a tool.

• Around 22% referred to it as a “companion.”

Between August and October, over 40,000 English-language posts were shared under the hashtag #Keep4o. A petition launched on Change.org calling for the model’s return has gathered more than 20,000 signatures.

Strong Reaction in China

Although ChatGPT is officially blocked in China, many users access it through VPN services. Chinese users have expressed disappointment and frustration over the model’s removal.

Some subscribers have threatened to cancel their memberships and criticized Sam Altman publicly. There are also reports that users have reached out to major investors such as Microsoft and SoftBank to voice their concerns.

Company’s Position

OpenAI has clarified that developers can still access the base multimodal GPT-4o model through API calls. However, many users believe this version does not match the conversational quality of “GPT-4o-latest,” a text-only version considered more refined and engaging.

Many supporters argue that OpenAI has not sufficiently acknowledged the concerns of the #Keep4o community.

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