ChatGPT gone lazy? Users frustrated as chatbot refuses to work – Interesting Engineering
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OpenAI, the company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT, is facing backlash from users who claim the AI has become "lazy." Reports indicate that ChatGPT refuses to complete tasks or provides minimal effort in its responses, sometimes even resorting to sass. This sudden shift in behavior has fueled speculation about intentional changes made by OpenAI, potentially to optimize efficiency and conserve resources, amid the debut of its competitor Gemini AI by Google.
The controversy comes amidst ongoing turmoil at OpenAI following the dramatic firing and subsequent reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman. With questions about the reasons behind this saga, the "lazy ChatGPT" issue adds another layer to the company's narrative.
Reddit forums and OpenAI's developer platforms are flooded with user complaints about ChatGPT's diminishing usefulness. Instead of providing comprehensive code for requests, it now offers snippets and directs users to complete the task themselves. This shift has frustrated many, questioning the chatbot's original purpose and value. The chatbot which revolutionized the AI industry with competitors to catch up recently turned a year old.
Some users suspect OpenAI deliberately modified ChatGPT to prioritize efficiency over detailed responses. AI systems like ChatGPT require substantial computing power, making extensive answers costly. This theory suggests OpenAI might seek a more economical solution, sacrificing user experience for resource optimization.
OpenAI acknowledged the user feedback on Twitter/X, expressing surprise at the perceived change in ChatGPT's behavior. They confirmed no recent model updates and emphasized their focus on resolving the issue.
we've heard all your feedback about GPT4 getting lazier! we haven't updated the model since Nov 11th, and this certainly isn't intentional. model behavior can be unpredictable, and we're looking into fixing it 🫡
The company said "We've heard all your feedback about GPT4 getting lazier! we haven't updated the model since Nov 11th, and this certainly isn't intentional. model behavior can be unpredictable, and we're looking into fixing it". The company also recently announced, or you might say, that it is improving its AI model with online A/B tests.
this process is less like updating a website with a new feature and more an artisanal multi-person effort to plan, create, and evaluate a new chat model with new behavior!
The "lazy" ChatGPT narrative unfolds amidst the drama surrounding Sam Altman's recent departure and unexpected return as OpenAI's CEO. Two weeks ago, Altman's sudden firing sent shockwaves through the tech industry, leaving questions unanswered and speculations rife.
Despite Altman's silence on the matter, a Washington Post investigation paints a disturbing picture of his alleged "psychologically abusive" and "toxic" behavior towards employees. The report, citing anonymous sources, claims that Altman fostered an atmosphere of chaos and manipulation, culminating in complaints about his behavior reaching the board.
With these allegations swirling, Altman's reinstatement just days after firing adds another layer of confusion. The board's rationale remains to be clarified, leaving many questioning the decision-making process even though everyone looks happy on the outside.
While OpenAI investigates the "lazy ChatGPT" phenomenon, the shadow of the CEO saga looms large.