OpenAI announces end of old models like GPT-4o in ChatGPT and focuses resources on advanced versions of the GPT-5 family in 2026

OpenAI released an official statement about the discontinuation of several old models on ChatGPT. The measure comes into force on February 13, 2026 and affects versions such as GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini and o4-mini, in addition to GPT-5 Instant and GPT-5 Thinking.

The company maintains access to these models via API, but removes the selector in the main ChatGPT app. The decision reflects the low usage of these versions, with only 0.1% of users still using them.

The transition directs all users to the GPT-5.1 family, released in November 2025, and GPT-5.2, available in December 2025. Essas versions incorporate advances in customization and more natural responses.

Models impacted by the update

OpenAI explicitly lists models that are no longer available in the ChatGPT interface. The removal covers the entire GPT-4 line and early GPT-5 variants.

Users will notice the absence of the template selector after the established date. The company had already signaled the gradual depreciation since the launch of the newest versions.

• GPT-4o (launched in May 2024);
• GPT-4.1 and GPT-4.1 mini;
• o4-mini;
• GPT-5 Instant, Thinking and Pro.

Maintenance occurs only on the API platform for developers. Essa separation allows continuity in external applications without interruption.

Discontinuation Schedule

OpenAI has set February 13, 2026 as the single date for retirement of legacy models. The deadline follows a previous announcement about the original GPT-5.

The company allowed a three-month period for adaptation after each new release. Usuários of plans Plus and Pro had temporary access to the old versions.

Automatic migration occurs to GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 without the need for manual action. OpenAI monitors the process to avoid losing conversations or settings.

Reasons for the strategic decision

OpenAI focuses resources on the most efficient and up-to-date versions of the technology. Apenas a minimum fraction of users remain on the old models.

The feedback collected directly influenced improvements to the GPT-5 families. The new versions offer more robust support for generating creative ideas.

The company highlights greater ability to personalize responses. The updates make ChatGPT more adaptable to different communication styles.

Evolution of GPT-5 families

The GPT-5 family represents a significant advance compared to previous models. GPT-5.1 brought adjustments for warmer, more human responses.

GPT-5.2 has expanded tone and personality options based on user reports. Essas changes respond to initial criticisms about emotional detachment in the original GPT-5.

OpenAI incorporated usage data to refine chatbot behavior. Current versions prioritize natural and contextual interactions.

Low adherence to legacy models

OpenAI’s internal data shows that most users have naturally migrated to recent versions. Menos of 0.1% still selects GPT-4o manually.

This trend accelerated after the release of GPT-5.1 in November 2025. Usuários reported a preference for more personalized and accurate responses.

The company sees a similar pattern in previous model transitions. The concentration of traffic in new versions justifies cleaning the selector.

Benefits of current versions

The GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 families deliver superior performance in complex tasks. Elas maintain state of the art coding, mathematics, and writing.

OpenAI has improved step-by-step reasoning capabilities in the latest versions. Usuários gain more structured and reliable answers.

• Expanded support for varied communication styles;
• Greater precision in creative tasks;
• Reduction of hallucinations in long responses;
• Better integration with external tools.

These gains result from training with expanded datasets and refined techniques.

Automatic migration process

OpenAI implements smooth transition for all user profiles. Não there is an interruption in the conversation history or saved preferences.

Paid plan subscribers receive priority access to premium features in new versions. The company recommends comparative tests for adaptation.

Technical support remains available for questions about changes. The migration occurs in the background with no noticeable impact on the daily experience.

Recent announcement context

OpenAI published the statement on January 29, 2026 detailing the retirement. The decision is in line with the strategy of maintaining only active models.

The company follows common practice in the artificial intelligence sector to optimize infrastructure. Recursos released are intended for training future iterations.

Business users via API do not face immediate changes. The separation between ChatGPT’s interface and development platform ensures stability.

OpenAI continues to invest in research for next generations of models. The concentration on GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 reinforces commitment to continuous innovation in the most used chatbot globally.