OpenAI has recently removed its core feature, the model router, affecting millions of users. This router used to direct queries to the most suitable AI model, but now, both free and $5 subscription users default to the faster, cheaper GPT-5.2 Instant. This shift highlights a critical issue in the AI sector: most users prioritize speed over quality, often preferring quick answers despite longer processing times yielding more insightful responses. The decision to roll back the model router stems from user feedback favoring a straightforward chat experience and the significant costs associated with routing queries to advanced models. While reasoning models are still accessible, they now require manual selection. The rollback also eliminates a key safety feature that addressed psychological distress, though OpenAI claims GPT-5.2 Instant meets safety benchmarks effectively. The company may reinstate the router for free users in the future as technology evolves.
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