OpenAI introduced its newest large language model, GPT-5, during a live-streamed event on Thursday. This updated version brings a range of improvements in areas such as coding, accuracy, reasoning, writing, health-related inquiries, and multimodal capabilities.
One feature of the new model that has largely flown under the radar is the addition of four new personalities in ChatGPT, enabling users to tailor the chatbot to better suit their individual needs.
So, what exactly are these personalities, and how can you activate them in ChatGPT? Let’s break it down below.
What is personality, and what will change in ChatGPT?
In ChatGPT, a personality refers to the style and tone the chatbot adopts when replying to users. It’s a blend of traits, voice, and behavior that shapes how responses come across—whether they feel friendly, casual, concise, or professional.
Adjusting ChatGPT’s personality lets users select a response style that best suits their needs. These new personalities also integrate with users’ saved memories in ChatGPT, offering even more personalized customization based on individual preferences.
According to OpenAI, a user’s saved preferences can influence or even override the default behavior of a selected personality.
What remains unchanged with personality?
Switching personalities in ChatGPT doesn’t alter the chatbot’s core capabilities or the safety guidelines it follows. It also doesn’t limit the type of content users can request. For example, even if the ‘Listener’ personality is active, asking for Python code will still result in a clear and functional response, rather than one focused on a reflective or conversational tone.
In ChatGPT, a personality refers to the style and tone the chatbot uses when answering user questions. It’s a mix of traits, voice, and behavior that shapes whether responses come across as friendly, casual, concise, or professional.
Who has access to ChatGPT personalities?
ChatGPT personalities are exclusively available to OpenAI’s paying users, including those subscribed to the Plus, Pro, and Team plans.
The new personalities are activated only when you start a new conversation; existing chats will continue using the chatbot’s default personality.
Here’s a look at OpenAI’s four new personalities:
- Cynic: OpenAI describes the Cynic personality as “Sarcastic and dry, delivers blunt help with wit. Often teases, but provides direct, practical answers when it matters.”
This personality delivers honest responses that may include sarcastic remarks, but it remains respectful and on-topic. It’s ideal for users seeking straightforward yet engaging answers from ChatGPT, and it can also be a great fit for creative brainstorming sessions. - Robot: While describing this personality, OpenAI writes, “Precise, efficient, and emotionless, delivering direct answers without extra words.”
When the Robot personality is enabled, users will receive direct answers upfront, followed by brief, clear reasoning. ChatGPT may break down problems into inputs, levers, and outputs where relevant, and occasionally include citations to support factual statements.
This personality is ideal when users need quick, clear, and straightforward answers. It’s especially helpful for technical tasks, code explanations, and troubleshooting issues. - Listener: OpenAI’s official description for this personality goes, “Warm and laid-back, reflecting your thoughts back with calm clarity and light wit.”
This personality is designed to help users make their own decisions by offering responses that explore trade-offs and potential outcomes. It serves as a conversational sounding board, encouraging thoughtful reflection on the issue at hand. - Nerd: “Playful and curious, explaining concepts clearly while celebrating knowledge and discovery,” reads OpenAI’s official description for this personality.
When the Nerd personality is activated, users can expect detailed but easy-to-understand explanations, along with suggestions for possible next steps. It may also encourage users to explore further options or conduct experiments.
How do you enable personalities in ChatGPT?
- Ensure you have a subscription to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, or Team.
- Click on the profile icon located at the bottom left corner of the ChatGPT website.
- Select ‘Customize ChatGPT’ to access the settings page.
- Scroll down to the “What personality should ChatGPT have?” option.
- Enter your preferred personality there.
For users on the ChatGPT iOS or Android app:
- Open settings by tapping the profile icon.
- Go to ‘Personalization’ and then choose ‘Custom Instructions’.
- Enter your desired personality under the “What personality should ChatGPT have?” section.
