OpenAI’s latest ChatGPT o3-mini update aims to clarify its reasoning process but faces accusations of mirroring China’s DeepSeek-R1. Users criticize the shift from raw “chain of thought” (CoT) data to summarized explanations, claiming it sacrifices transparency.
Why OpenAI Changed ChatGPT o3-Mini’s Reasoning Display
OpenAI say the redesign focuses on readability and safety:
- Simplified summaries replace complex raw CoT data.
- A post-processing step removes unsafe content and translates reasoning into non-English languages.
- Paid users get expanded CoT insights with o3-mini-high.
“This builds trust and accessibility,” OpenAI argued. Critics, however, call it a step backward.
User Backlash: “Show Full CoT, Not Summaries!”
Reactions on X (formerly Twitter) highlight frustration:
- Mayo Oshin: “We’d appreciate the full chain of thought, not a summary.”
- Ignis Rex: “Did OpenAI copy DeepSeek’s CoT style?”
- Josip Tomo Licardo: “China innovates; the US copies.”
Others praised the update:
- Roman Pshichenko: “The CoT feels more engaging than stiff AI responses.”
- Jesus Vazquez: “Examples of improved reasoning would help.”
DeepSeek-R1’s Influence on OpenAI
DeepSeek’s R1 model, lauded for its clear, real-time reasoning, set a new standard for AI transparency. OpenAI’s redesign fuels speculation it’s playing catch-up:
- Both now prioritize user-friendly CoT explanations.
- Critics argue OpenAI’s post-processing risks censoring raw data.
Why Transparency Matters in AI
Users demand visibility into AI decision-making to:
- Verify accuracy of responses.
- Identify biases or flawed logic.
- Build trust in generative AI tools.
OpenAI claims summaries balance clarity with safety, but skeptics warn oversimplification hides critical insights.
The Future of AI Reasoning
OpenAI’s update reflects a broader industry struggle:
- Pros: Better readability, multilingual support, safer content.
- Cons: Less granularity, potential “black box” concerns.
For now, DeepSeek-R1 retains an edge in unfiltered transparency.
FAQ:
Did OpenAI copy DeepSeek-R1’s reasoning style?
Users speculate OpenAI’s CoT update mirrors DeepSeek-R1’s approach, but OpenAI claims the redesign prioritizes clarity and safety.
Can ChatGPT o3-mini show raw chain of thought?
No. OpenAI now provides summarized reasoning to simplify complex data and remove unsafe content.
Final Take:
OpenAI’s update highlights the tightrope between user trust and technical transparency. While the streamlined CoT improves accessibility, the backlash underscores a growing demand for unedited AI reasoning—a space where DeepSeek-R1 currently leads.
