ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a conversational AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, first launched to the public in November 2022. It quickly became a global phenomenon, setting the standard for generative AI with its ability to understand and generate human-like text across a vast array of tasks. Built on a series of large language models (LLMs), its evolution has been rapid:

• GPT-3.5: Powered the initial free version, demonstrating strong conversational ability.

• GPT-4: A significant leap in reasoning, creativity, and accuracy, released for paying users.

• GPT-4o (“omni”): Launched in 2024, this was a groundbreaking multimodal model that could process and generate text, audio, and images in real-time, with response speeds akin to human conversation.

• GPT-5: The latest iteration (mid-2025), which introduced advanced agentic capabilities, allowing it to autonomously use tools, browse the web, and complete complex multi-step tasks from start to finish using its own virtual computer.

From a simple text-based chatbot, ChatGPT has transformed into a versatile AI assistant integrated into millions of workflows, though its latest release has been met with some user criticism regarding performance.

Features and Functionality

ChatGPT’s strength lies in its vast and integrated toolkit:

• Multimodal Interaction: Process text, images, audio, and video inputs to generate coherent, contextual responses.

• Advanced Agent Mode: The flagship feature of GPT-5. Users can instruct ChatGPT to complete complex tasks like competitive market analysis, planning and booking travel, or creating a slide deck. It proactively uses a suite of tools (web browsers, terminal, API access) to achieve this.

• Deep Research: Synthesises information from multiple web sources to produce well-cited, structured reports on complex topics.

• Code Interpreter & Data Analysis: Run code in a secure sandbox to analyse data, create visualisations, and clean datasets from uploaded files (PDFs, CSVs, spreadsheets).

• Image Generation & Analysis: Create images from text prompts using DALL·E and analyse uploaded photos or diagrams.

• Voice Mode: Have natural, real-time spoken conversations with the AI, with response times as low as 232 milliseconds.

• Memory & Custom Instructions: Remember user preferences and facts across conversations for a personalised experience.

• Canvas & Projects: An interactive workspace for visual brainstorming and organising complex, multi-chat projects.

• Scheduled Tasks: Automate recurring tasks like generating weekly reports or sending reminders.

• Third-Party Integrations: Connect with apps like Gmail, Google Groups, and Twitch to automate workflows within those platforms.

Pros & Cons Table

Overall Rating

4.5 / 5 ★★★★☆

ChatGPT remains the most versatile and powerful general-purpose AI assistant on the market. Its shift from a reactive chatbot to a proactive agent is a paradigm shift, automating complex digital workflows. However, it loses points for occasional unreliability, privacy considerations, and a paywall for its most powerful features. The recent GPT-5 update has also introduced performance hiccups that need resolving.

Key Reviews with Links

1. eWeek (2025) – 4/5

   • Verdict: Praises its generative content abilities and feature set but notes its potential for hallucinations and lack of emotional empathy. Calls it an “excellent choice for visual projects and data insights”.

   • Read full review

2. AppyPie (2025) – Highly Positive

   • Verdict: “Much more than just an AI chatbot.” Highlights its role in automating tasks and streamlining communication, making it an “essential digital assistant”.

   • Read full review

3. Trustpilot (2025) – 1.5/5 (Based on User Reviews)

   • Verdict: User sentiment is highly polarised. Many recent reviews are scathingly negative about GPT-5, calling it a “downgrade”, “slower”, and “unusable”. Positive reviews praise its help with coding, brainstorming, and mental support.

   • See user reviews

Summary: Key Points

• 🏆 Core Strength: Its unparalleled versatility as a single platform for text, image, code, data, and task automation.

• 🚀 Key Differentiator: Agent Mode sets it apart, allowing it to act autonomously on the web to complete jobs from start to finish.

• 🎯 Ideal For:

  • Students, developers, writers, and marketers seeking a productivity multiplier.

  • Businesses looking to automate repetitive tasks and workflows.

  • Anyone needing a brainstorming partner or creative aid.

• ⚠️ Important Considerations:

  • Never trust it blindly; always fact-check critical information.

  • The free tier (GPT-4o mini) is powerful but limited; professionals will need a Plus ($20/mo) or Teams ($25-$30/mo) subscription for full power.

  • Be highly mindful of data privacy; avoid sharing sensitive information.

• 🔄 Ecosystem: Thrives on a vast library of third-party integrations and custom GPTs for specialised tasks.

• 📉 Current Sentiment: The latest GPT-5 model has received significant user criticism for a perceived drop in speed, reliability, and creativity compared to GPT-4, creating a rift in its user base.