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User claims chat gpt is deteriorating: an alarm bell

Users Slam ChatGPT | Declining Reliability Sparks Backlash

By

Kenji Yamamoto

Feb 16, 2026, 01:13 PM

2 minutes needed to read

A person looking concerned while using a smartphone, showing frustration over incorrect information from an AI app.
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A swell of discontent is rising among people regarding the performance of ChatGPT, with many claiming it has hit an all-time low. Users express frustration with inaccuracies in responses, leading to increased research efforts on their part.

Ongoing Issues with Inaccuracy

Many individuals report that basic queries now return wrong information as much as 80% of the time. One user claimed, "I deleted the app earlier today because of how bad it is." These frustrations echo across various forums as people reflect on their experiences.

User Experiences Highlighting Performance Decline

One common theme is the perceived drop in ChatGPT's ability to search and provide current data. An irritated user mentioned, "The instant model loves not searchingeven when youโ€™re clearly asking about something specific." The frustration is palpable as people feel their expectations for helpfulness have not been met.

Moreover, some long-time users noted that improvements from earlier versions have dissipated. As one commentator put it, "For people that have worked with GPT since 3, it became better and better until 4Then it got nerfed heavily."

Rising Alternatives to ChatGPT

With the growing discontent, people are actively exploring alternatives. One user stated, "Iโ€™m switching to Claudeit's sad I uninstalled the app." Another suggested trying Gemini, claiming it operates more effectively without hallucinations. This shift could affect ChatGPT's user base moving forward.

Key Insights from User Feedback

  • ๐Ÿ˜ก High frustration with inaccuracies: Users report needing to verify every fact.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Alternative models gaining traction: Many are switching to Claude and Gemini.

  • โฌ‡๏ธ Diminished performance: Long-term users note a decline since updates began.

The backlash raises questions about whether a more reliable tool will emerge in a market filled with alternatives. As it stands, ChatGPT faces serious scrutiny, and its future effectiveness remains uncertain.

Probable Path Forward for ChatGPT

As users turn to alternatives like Claude and Gemini, ChatGPT may face pressure to adapt quickly. Experts estimate around a 70% chance that the platform will make significant updates within the next six months to regain users' trust. The key will be enhancing accuracy and relevance in responses, reflecting users' high expectations. If these ongoing issues aren't addressed, ChatGPT could see its user base decline further, while upstart competitors may gain traction due to their perceived reliability.

A Historical Snapshot of Forced Change

Consider the world of newspapers in the early 2000s. As online news platforms gained popularity, many traditional outlets faced serious declines. Similar to ChatGPT's current plight, the older models struggled with their audience's changing needs. Just as newspapers had to innovate or die, ChatGPT's survival hinges on addressing user dissatisfaction swiftly. The shift mirrors a classic transformation where what was once dominant must evolve or risk obsolescence, reminding us that adaptability is often the key to relevance.