How to Enable GPT-4o in ChatGPT

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If you want to enable GPT-4o in ChatGPT, here’s the scoop. OpenAI recently swapped out GPT-4o for its newer sibling, GPT-5, leaving many users missing the older model’s mix of smarts and personality. Its sudden disappearance had people asking where it went and how to get it back. You upgraded expecting an AI-powered utopia, and instead you’re left wondering where your old pal went—the one with the charm, the wit, and the occasional quirky tangent. Yeah, OpenAI quietly shoved it in the attic like an embarrassing family heirloom. The good news? You can bring it back if you know where to look.

Spoiler: it’s hidden behind a toggle like some sort of forbidden cheat code.

Step 1: Get That Plus Subscription Ready

This only works if you’re a ChatGPT Plus subscriber. If you’re on the free plan, sorry, you’re stuck with whatever OpenAI hands you. Think of it like getting VIP access at a club except instead of free drinks, you get to talk to a chatbot with a better personality.

Step 2: Fire Up ChatGPT

Open the ChatGPT web app (or desktop app if you’re fancy like that) and log in. Yes, you actually have to log in. This isn’t some secret handshake situation.

Step 3: Head Into Settings

Click on your profile avatar or name at the bottom left. A menu will pop up. Select Settings. This is where OpenAI hides all the good stuff, kind of like your grandma hiding the expensive cookies.

Step 4: Flip the Magic Switch

Inside Settings, look for the option that says “Show legacy models” and turn it on. That’s it. That’s the whole trick. No incantations, no goat sacrifices. Just a toggle.

Step 5: Summon GPT-4o

Start a new chat and scroll down the model list until you see GPT-4o under “Other models.” Click it, and congratulations, your old AI buddy is back from the digital afterlife.

Pro tip: If you’re on the Mac app and don’t see it right away, restart the app so the setting syncs.

Step 6: Bask in Nostalgia

Now you can enjoy the comforting, slightly chaotic conversational style you fell in love with. Sure, GPT-5 might be smarter, faster, and more capable, but GPT-4o just gets you. Think of it as trading in your Tesla for your old beat-up convertible. Less efficient, but way more fun.

Quick Recap: Settings → Show Legacy Models → Pick GPT-4o → Brag to your friends.

You’re welcome.

Tony Simons

Tony has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and over 14 years of writing experience between multiple publications in the tech, photography, lifestyle, and deal industries.