On April 22, 2025, ChatGPT users across the UK were left in the lurch as the AI chatbot experienced a significant outage. Reports flooded in from thousands of users encountering error messages and unresponsive interfaces. The disruption lasted for several hours, leaving many without access to the popular AI tool, as Daily Record reported.
When users tried to access chatgpt.com, they were greeted by a blank page with the message: “ChatGPT is currently unavailable.” OpenAI swiftly responded with an update, confirming they had pinpointed the problem and were actively working on a solution.
OpenAI acknowledged the issue on their X page, citing an upstream provider problem as the cause. While the company worked diligently to resolve the situation, the incident highlighted the growing reliance on AI tools and the need for reliable alternatives.
“We have reports of API calls returning errors, and difficulties logging in to platform dot openai dot com and ChatGPT. We have identified the issue and are rolling out a remediation. We are working as fast as we can to return service to normal and apologize for the downtime,” an OpenAI engineer shared on social media.
Exploring Alternatives to ChatGPT
When ChatGPT goes down, it’s essential to have backup options. Here are some noteworthy alternatives:
- DeepSeek: This AI chatbot has gained popularity for its stability and performance comparable to GPT-4. Users have praised its reliability during ChatGPT downtimes.
- Google Gemini: Formerly known as Bard, Gemini leverages Google’s vast knowledge base to provide informative and contextually relevant responses.
- Claude AI: Developed by Anthropic, Claude focuses on safety and reliability, offering accurate and helpful responses.
- Microsoft Copilot: Integrated into Microsoft’s productivity suite, Copilot assists with content generation and task automation, making it a reliable alternative.
- HuggingChat: An open-source alternative that provides access to various AI models, suitable for those seeking customizable solutions.
What to Do When ChatGPT is Down
- Check OpenAI’s Status Page: Stay informed about ongoing issues and estimated resolution times.
- Explore Alternatives: Familiarize yourself with other AI tools to ensure uninterrupted productivity.
- Provide Feedback: Report issues to OpenAI to assist in identifying and resolving problems promptly.
- Stay Updated: Follow OpenAI’s official channels for real-time updates and information.
The April 22 outage serves as a reminder of the importance of having contingency plans when relying on AI tools. By exploring and familiarizing yourself with alternative options, you can ensure that your workflow remains uninterrupted, even when your primary tool experiences downtime.
