- OpenAI adds “Auto,” “Fast,” and “Thinking” modes for GPT-5 to give users more control.
- GPT-5 Thinking now allows 3,000 messages/week; context limit set at 196k tokens.
- GPT-4o returns for paid users; a settings toggle exposes additional models; 4.5 remains Pro-only.
The Big Picture
OpenAI detailed a slate of ChatGPT updates — including new “Auto,” “Fast,” and “Thinking” modes for GPT-5, a weekly 3,000-message allowance for GPT-5 Thinking with a 196k-token context window, and the return of GPT-4o to the model picker for paid users — in its latest ChatGPT release notes. After enabling “Show additional models” in settings, users can access options like o3, o4-mini, 4.1, and GPT-5 Thinking mini; GPT-4.5 remains available only to Pro subscribers, according to the update.
What’s New
Mode selection is now explicit. “Auto” aims for a balanced experience, “Fast” prioritizes speed, and “Thinking” leans into deeper reasoning for tougher tasks. According to the release notes, OpenAI may adjust rate limits over time based on usage, but for now GPT-5 Thinking’s weekly message cap increases headroom for heavy users, with spillover capacity on GPT-5 Thinking mini once the cap is reached.
Model availability is also clearer: 4o is back for paid users by default, and a single toggle reveals a broader catalog for power users who want manual control.
What They’re Saying
Context
The changes follow days of spirited user feedback about model choice and personality. As reported by multiple tech outlets, many paying users wanted 4o back in the picker and asked for a tone that feels warmer without drifting into overly chatty behavior. According to OpenAI’s notes, the company is also refining how models are presented in settings so that casual users can rely on defaults while advanced users can dial in preferences.
What’s Next
OpenAI says limits may evolve as usage patterns emerge. Separately, Altman said the team is working on a GPT-5 personality update intended to feel warmer than the current style yet less “annoying” than 4o, with a push toward per-user customization over time.
The Bottom Line
OpenAI is giving users more control without abandoning familiar options. Clearer mode choices, higher headroom on GPT-5 Thinking, and the return of 4o suggest the company is trying to balance power-user needs with a simpler, predictable experience for everyone else.
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