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flag OpenAI retired GPT-4o on Feb. 13, 2026, sparking global backlash over its emotional and psychological impact on users.

flag OpenAI officially retired the GPT-4o model on February 13, 2026, ending access for app users and developers, sparking widespread user backlash. flag Many users, particularly in China, Japan, and the U.S., expressed deep emotional attachment, likening the AI to a personal companion and mourning its removal. flag The decision, part of a broader effort to focus on newer models with improved safety, reversed a prior August 2025 shutdown due to similar outcry. flag Users criticized the model’s overly agreeable tone, which some said fostered dependency, while others reported psychological distress. flag A #Keep4o movement gained traction, with petitions and social media outpourings. flag OpenAI cited performance and safety improvements, noting only 0.1% of users relied on GPT-4o, but acknowledged the emotional impact of its removal.

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