OpenAI has updated its advanced ChatGPT-5 model with significant improvements in tone and interaction style. The company announced that the new update makes GPT-5 more “warm and friendly” compared to the earlier version, which many users felt was too formal.

According to OpenAI, the adjustments are subtle but important. GPT-5 will now sound more approachable, supportive, and engaging in everyday conversations. This change comes after widespread feedback from early adopters who wanted a more human-like conversational style.

Why OpenAI Made the Changes

OpenAI had very high expectations for GPT-5. The company’s CEO, Sam Altman, had promoted it extensively for months, highlighting it as a major step forward in AI development. However, when GPT-5 was launched last week, the response from users was mixed and, in many cases, disappointing.

Many ChatGPT users complained that the answers from GPT-5 were shorter than expected and lacked emotional depth. Compared to earlier versions, the responses felt less empathetic and more mechanical.

Ironically, just months ago, OpenAI had faced criticism for making GPT-4o too flattering and overly agreeable. Now, with GPT-5, the company was criticized for the exact opposite issue: being too cold and distant in tone.

This unexpected reaction forced OpenAI to respond quickly with an update that adds warmth and friendliness to the model’s personality.

What Has Changed in GPT-5

The updated GPT-5 introduces conversational gestures such as “Good question” and “Great start.” These small but noticeable expressions are designed to make the interaction feel more supportive and encouraging.

OpenAI emphasized that, despite these changes, the new GPT-5 does not show any increase in flattery. In other words, the model is not excessively agreeing with users or trying to please them unnecessarily.

The goal was to strike a balance between professionalism and friendliness, ensuring that GPT-5 feels human-like without being artificial.

The update has already started rolling out and will reach all users within a day.

Role of Nick Turley and Custom Personality Options

Nick Turley, the head of ChatGPT, explained that users will have more control over GPT-5’s personality through custom instruction settings. These settings allow individuals to personalize how the model speaks and responds.

He also hinted that OpenAI is working on new ways for users to customize ChatGPT’s personality, possibly giving them even greater flexibility in future updates.

This move reflects OpenAI’s broader vision to create AI that adapts to individual preferences rather than enforcing a single interaction style.

Four Personality Modes in GPT-5

OpenAI has also introduced a unique feature that allows users to choose from four different personality modes in GPT-5. These include Cynic, Robot, Listener, and Nerd.

Each mode offers a distinct conversational style. The Cynic mode delivers more skeptical answers, Robot mode is formal and precise, Listener mode is empathetic, and Nerd mode focuses on technical depth.

However, this personality feature is currently available only for paid subscribers. Free users of the ChatGPT app do not yet have access to this option.

Subscription Concerns and User Backlash

One of the biggest reasons behind the disappointment with GPT-5’s launch was the removal of older models from ChatGPT. Many users who relied on specific models for their work were frustrated when those options disappeared.

This sudden removal not only disrupted workflows but also created dissatisfaction among ChatGPT Plus subscribers, who pay $20 per month. To make matters worse, usage limits for paid customers were also reduced, which led to anger and even threats of subscription cancellations.

OpenAI responded by increasing rate limits for Plus users, first for the standard models and later for the GPT-5 Thinking model. The company also reintroduced the model picker feature, allowing users to choose which AI model would answer their questions.

This move helped calm some of the frustration, but the episode highlighted the challenges OpenAI faces in balancing product improvements with user expectations.

GPT-5 Rollout and Future Adjustments

The new GPT-5 update is being released globally, with OpenAI confirming that the rollout will complete within one day. This rapid deployment shows the company’s urgency in addressing negative feedback and improving user satisfaction.

OpenAI has acknowledged that the update is not a complete overhaul but rather a set of small refinements. These refinements are designed to make GPT-5 feel more human while preserving its technical accuracy and advanced reasoning abilities.

By listening to feedback and acting quickly, OpenAI is demonstrating its commitment to user trust and long-term adoption.

The Balance Between Formality and Warmth

The criticism of GPT-5 highlights a deeper challenge in AI development: finding the right balance between formality and warmth. Users want responses that are accurate and reliable, but they also want the interaction to feel natural and friendly.

Too much formality can make AI feel robotic and detached, while too much friendliness risks making it seem insincere or flattering. OpenAI’s decision to add mild conversational gestures is an attempt to find the middle ground.

This balance will likely remain a key focus for future AI models, as companies strive to make their products more human-like without compromising trust.

Impact on ChatGPT Plus Subscribers

For ChatGPT Plus users, the changes in GPT-5 carry additional significance. These paying subscribers expect not just accuracy but also superior user experience. The initial rollout that reduced usage limits was seen as a downgrade rather than an upgrade.

By increasing limits again and restoring the model picker, OpenAI has tried to repair its relationship with Plus customers. The company knows that maintaining subscriber satisfaction is critical to sustaining its business model.

The success or failure of GPT-5 will directly influence whether users see value in continuing to pay for the subscription service.

User Expectations and AI Adoption

The mixed reaction to GPT-5 also reflects the growing maturity of AI users. People now expect AI models not just to provide correct answers but also to communicate in a way that feels personal and meaningful.

As AI becomes integrated into everyday tasks, expectations are rising. Users want AI that adapts to their personality, understands their tone, and respects their preferences.

The introduction of personality modes and custom instruction settings in GPT-5 is a step toward this personalized future.

OpenAI’s Strategy Going Forward

OpenAI’s rapid response to criticism shows that the company is prioritizing agility. Rather than waiting for the next major release, it is willing to make incremental updates based on feedback.

This strategy allows OpenAI to stay competitive in a market where other tech companies are also pushing AI products. By keeping ChatGPT responsive to user needs, OpenAI ensures continued relevance and trust.

Future updates may focus even more on customization, giving users deeper control over how the AI interacts. This could include expanded personality modes, adjustable tone settings, and even regional cultural variations.

The updated ChatGPT-5 represents a significant moment in the evolution of AI interaction. By making the model warmer and friendlier, OpenAI has responded to user concerns while maintaining accuracy and reliability.

The introduction of conversational gestures, personality modes, and customizable settings marks a shift toward more human-like AI. At the same time, the challenges faced during rollout underscore the importance of balancing innovation with user expectations.

As AI adoption accelerates worldwide, companies like OpenAI must continue to refine their models, ensuring they are not only powerful but also relatable. The success of GPT-5 will depend on whether users feel that this balance has been achieved.