Article Title: OpenAI Announces Retirement of Several ChatGPT Models in February
OpenAI has announced that it will retire several older models from ChatGPT’s model selection on February 13, 2026. This decision is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to streamline its offerings and encourage users to adopt newer, more advanced models.
Models Scheduled for Retirement:
– GPT‑4o
– GPT‑4.1
– GPT‑4.1 mini
– OpenAI o4-mini
These models will no longer be accessible through ChatGPT’s interface after the specified date. However, OpenAI has clarified that this change will not affect the availability of these models via the API, ensuring that developers can continue to use them in their applications.
Background on GPT-4o:
GPT-4o, introduced prior to the release of GPT-5, was known for its warmer and friendlier tone, which resonated with many users. When OpenAI initially removed GPT-4o from the model picker in August 2025, it faced significant backlash from users who preferred its conversational style over the more straightforward responses of GPT-5. In response to this feedback, OpenAI reinstated GPT-4o and introduced features allowing users to customize ChatGPT’s personality to better suit their preferences.
User Adoption and Customization:
Despite the initial popularity of GPT-4o, OpenAI reports that only 0.1% of users interact with it daily. This low adoption rate has influenced the decision to retire the model. To accommodate diverse user preferences, OpenAI has enhanced ChatGPT’s customization options, offering seven distinct personalities and the ability for users to set custom instructions. These features aim to provide a more personalized and engaging user experience.
Implications for Users and Developers:
For the majority of ChatGPT users, this change is expected to have minimal impact, as most have transitioned to newer models. Developers utilizing the API can continue to access the retiring models, ensuring that existing applications remain functional. OpenAI’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction is evident in its efforts to refine and enhance its AI offerings continually.
Looking Ahead:
As OpenAI continues to develop and release more advanced models, users can anticipate further improvements in AI interactions. The company’s focus on customization and user feedback ensures that ChatGPT will evolve to meet the diverse needs of its user base.
