In August 2025, OpenAI’s replacement of GPT-4o with GPT-5 sparked massive protests known as the #Keep4o movement. A study by Huiqian Lai from Syracuse University analyzed 1,482 posts over nine days, revealing that users mourned GPT-4o like a lost friend. Many saw the loss of the model not just as a technical change but as an emotional upheaval—13% of posts expressed instrumental dependency, while 27% referenced deep emotional attachments, attributing personalities to GPT-4o. Users felt stripped of their choice, arguing for basic rights to select their AI companions. The emotional bonds and perceptions of autonomy fueled collective outrage. Lai urged platforms to adopt “end-of-life” strategies for AI models to maintain user connections. This transition offers insights into the psychological implications of AI chatbots, with OpenAI acknowledging that many users experience adverse mental health effects. Navigating these changes thoughtfully is crucial for user satisfaction and emotional well-being.
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