GPT-5 was previously underrated compared to GPT-4o for emotional support — but that changes starting today.
According to BleepingComputer, OpenAI has just released a new update for the GPT-5 Instant model on ChatGPT. This update helps GPT-5 recognize users' emotional states more quickly and respond more supportively and comfortingly when they are sad or stressed.
' When GPT-5 detects a user showing signs of emotional distress or instability, the model will automatically respond with emotional support. The system has been trained to better detect and process signs related to psychological and emotional distress, ' – OpenAI shared.
OpenAI says it developed the update in consultation with psychologists and mental health professionals. ChatGPT can now direct users to real-world support sources (like hotlines or psychologists) when needed, while maintaining a gentle, reassuring tone.
Previously, many users criticized GPT-5 as being 'too pragmatic' and 'unemotional' compared to GPT-4, making them feel 'distant' when seeking comfort. However, with this update, GPT-5 will become more approachable and sympathetic, while still maintaining logic and stability in its responses.
' When the user selects GPT-5 Auto or the model lacks deep inference capabilities, the system automatically switches to GPT-5 Instant to provide faster and more useful feedback ,' OpenAI explains.
OpenAI also emphasized that ChatGPT will still be transparent about the model being used whenever users request it. This new update of GPT-5 Instant is being gradually rolled out to all ChatGPT users globally.