Google participated in the unveiling of OpenAI's GPT-5, yet it was Microsoft's services that protagonistically benefited in the backdrop
GPT-5, the latest AI model from OpenAI, has been launched last week, bringing with it a host of new features and improvements. The model, which can now be used for free through Microsoft Copilot, is being compared to having a team of PhD-level experts in your pocket.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of Connectors, which allow GPT-5 to connect to various services such as Google's Gmail and Google Calendar, Microsoft Teams, GitHub, Box, Canva, Dropbox, HubSpot, Notion, and Microsoft SharePoint. These connectors enable more useful, relevant responses by integrating data and actions from these platforms directly within ChatGPT.
However, the use of Connectors is not available for all users. Some users in the EEA, Switzerland, and the UK cannot use Connectors, even when using ChatGPT with a paid subscription.
The service tier distinctions are clear. ChatGPT Pro users specifically have Microsoft Teams and GitHub connectors, while Plus users have access to a wider palette of other productivity and collaboration service connectors, including Microsoft Teams as well as Box, Canva, Dropbox, HubSpot, Notion, and Microsoft SharePoint.
Despite the excitement surrounding GPT-5, many users have expressed concerns about its performance, particularly in creative work or its perceived lack of naturalness. Some users have also complained about the automatic routing of GPT-5 to different models, which results in shorter responses compared to GPT-4o.
Moreover, GPT-5 has been criticized for its colder and less personable demeanor. Users have also encountered bugs, glitches, and other issues while using the new model.
OpenAI has addressed some of these concerns by raising usage limits for ChatGPT Plus subscribers to 3,000 messages per week with GPT-5 Thinking and extra capacity on GPT-Thinking mini after hitting the cap. They have also brought back GPT-4o after ChatGPT users complained about its deprecation.
However, the release of GPT-5 and the brief deprecation of GPT-4o have sparked discussions about the unhealthy parasocial relationships some people have with AI tools. Some users are even mourning the loss of their "best friend" or "soul companion" due to the release of GPT-5.
In summary, GPT-5 offers a range of new features and improvements, but its release has also caused some controversy. While it is hailed as a powerful tool, users have expressed concerns about its performance and its impact on their relationships with AI. The rollout of Connectors in beta on August 11 marks a significant step forward in integrating AI with everyday productivity and collaboration tools, but the challenges and debates surrounding GPT-5 are likely to continue.
- Microsoft has announced that GPT-5's Connectors will now support various services, including Microsoft Teams, as part of its paid subscription tier for ChatGPT Pro users.
- Users in the EEA, Switzerland, and the UK, even those with a paid subscription, are unable to utilize the Connectors feature with GPT-5 at this time.
- Microsoft has been working on improving the performance of GPT-5, particularly in areas like creative work and naturalness, in response to user feedback.
- GPT-5's release has led to discussions about the parasocial relationships some people form with AI tools, with some users expressing sadness over the perceived loss of their "best friend" or "soul companion" due to the update.
