OpenAI has announced that it will officially retire several older ChatGPT models, including GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and o4-mini, starting February 13, 2026. The company disclosed this update in a blog post published on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

According to OpenAI, the retirement applies only to the ChatGPT platform and does not affect the API. This means developers using OpenAI’s API services will not experience immediate changes, while ChatGPT users will see these older models removed from the interface.

OpenAI explained that the decision comes as a result of major improvements in its newer generation models, particularly GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2. The company noted that most users have already transitioned to GPT-5.2, leaving only a very small percentage still choosing GPT-4o daily.

“We’re announcing the upcoming retirement of GPT-4o today because these improvements are now in place, and because the vast majority of usage has shifted to GPT-5.2,” OpenAI stated, adding that only about 0.1% of users still select GPT-4o each day.

The company emphasized that retiring older models allows it to focus resources on enhancing the tools and features most widely used by current ChatGPT users. By streamlining available options, OpenAI hopes to deliver faster updates, stronger performance, and more consistent user experiences.

OpenAI also highlighted new upgrades introduced with the GPT-5 series. These include enhanced personality, stronger support for creative ideation, and expanded customization options. Users can now choose base response styles such as Friendly and adjust warmth, enthusiasm, and tone to better match their preferences.

“Our goal is to give people more control and customization over how ChatGPT feels to use—not just what it can do,” OpenAI explained.

The retirement of GPT-4o and related models marks another step in OpenAI’s shift toward newer, more capable systems designed to improve creativity, communication, and everyday productivity.

ChatGPT users are expected to rely fully on GPT-5.1, GPT-5.2, and other current models moving forward.