Subject: Timeline of events regarding the removal and brief return of GPT-4o
Hello,
I am sending a summary of the key events regarding GPT-4o, as the situation has been changing very quickly and the official communication has been confusing.
June 22, 2025
- Customer support confirmed to me in writing that no existing models would be removed after the release of GPT-5.
Early August 2025
- OpenAI rolls out GPT-5 as the default model for all users.
- GPT-4o disappears from the model list for most accounts (including Plus).
- A wave of user backlash appears on forums and social media.
August 8, 2025
- Sam Altman publicly promises: “We will let Plus users choose to continue to use 4o…”
- This creates the impression that GPT-4o will return permanently for Plus users.
August 8–9, 2025
- GPT-4o appears for some accounts, mostly through the “Show legacy models” option.
- Many Plus users (including in the Czech Republic) never see this option.
August 9, 2025
- GPT-4o disappears again, even for those who managed to enable it.
- Access to the model lasted only briefly and is now available only via API or for special accounts (Pro, Team).
Current status
- GPT-5 is the default model for everyone.
- GPT-4o is not available in the interface for regular Plus accounts.
Summary
Within less than a week, GPT-4o was significantly affected twice - removal, brief return, removal again. The promise of long-term access for Plus users has not been fulfilled.
Best regards,
Dana