When OpenAI recently notified customers that it was phasing out legacy models, GPT-4o was once again in the spotlight. The popular model remained available for months after the initial release of GPT-5, as many GPT users struggled with the transition.
After briefly becoming available again, GPT-4o will now officially retire. Developers will still be have short-term access to it via the OpenAI API.
What ChatGPT Models Will Be Phased Out?
OpenAI confirmed that it will not only retire GPT-4o, but several other models from the ChatGPT interface. Beginning on February 13, 2026, users will no longer be able to choose some legacy and specialized models from the menu.
Models that OpenAI will phase out include:
- GPT-4o
- GPT-4.1
- GPT-4.1 mini
- o4-mini
- GPT-5 Thinking
- GPT-5 Instant
Going forward, the default ChatGPT option will be GPT-5.2, with more updates expected in the future. The move isn’t the first time that OpenAI has retired a model, and it signifies a step toward consolidating the platform to improve the user experience.
Why OpenAI Chose to Retire Legacy Models
When OpenAI first moved from GPT-4o to GPT-5, the change was noticeable immediately. The tone was less conversational and many users noticed the differences in their brand’s messaging.
Since then, OpenAI has continued improving the core performance, with more recent updates. The latest, GPT-5.2 has improved reasoning and coding, which allows ChatGPT to gradually phase out specialized models. But even CEO Sam Altman admits that the writing quality isn’t as good as previous versions, including GPT-4.5.
As OpenAI continues to update its core models, it will need to adopt strategies to ensure the writing quality stays conversational and doesn’t feel less “human” than previous models.
One sign of a shift in strategy is the introduction of ChatGPT personalities. Instead of relying on legacy models like GPT-4o, users can adjust the base tone and style. Brands should have more customized control of their messaging and PR.
GPT-4o’s exit points to a larger plan at OpenAI. The company seems set to streamline its models and build a single system that can be used for businesses and personal use alike.
What Should Brands Watch for After OpenAI Phases Out Models?
OpenAI’s decision to retire GPT-4o and other models shows how quickly AI platforms are changing. For businesses using AI across marketing and operations, even small changes to generative tools can influence output. It can also impact how customers interpret a brand’s narrative.
As AI platforms like ChatGPT transform, so does the context around digital storytelling. At Avenue Z, our team can help brands stay current on AI platform updates, understand how new models can influence messaging and visibility, and keep narratives consistent.
Contact Avenue Z to learn how updates to ChatGPT and other LLMs can impact your marketing strategy
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