ChatGPT Can Now Handle Reminders and To-Dos
OpenAI has launched a beta feature called “Tasks” for ChatGPT, enabling users to schedule reminders and future actions. This feature aims to expand ChatGPT’s capabilities beyond real-time interactions, making it function more like a digital assistant.
Available to Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers, the Tasks feature allows users to schedule various activities, such as daily weather updates, passport renewal reminders, or even lighthearted tasks like sharing jokes at specific times. Users can set one-time or recurring tasks by selecting the “4.0 with scheduled tasks” option in ChatGPT’s model picker and typing their desired task and timing.
The system can also suggest tasks based on user interactions, although users must approve these suggestions manually. Tasks can be managed directly within chat threads or via a dedicated Tasks section on the web, providing options to modify or cancel scheduled activities. Users will receive notifications upon task completion on web, desktop, and mobile platforms.
A limit of 10 active tasks is currently in place, and OpenAI has not yet announced plans to extend the feature to free-tier users, indicating it might remain exclusive to premium subscribers. Subscription costs range from $20 to $200 monthly.
This move marks a significant shift for ChatGPT, which has previously operated solely in real-time. With Tasks, OpenAI aims to rival traditional virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant by introducing scheduling and planning functionalities.
OpenAI is reportedly working on broader integrations for Tasks. For instance, a forthcoming tool called “Operator” is expected to enable ChatGPT to autonomously control computers, while a feature codenamed “Caterpillar” may allow the AI to analyze problems, summarize data, and interact with websites and documents.
The release of Tasks comes amidst questions about the reliability of such systems, as previous autonomous features have produced inconsistent results. OpenAI’s decision to debut Tasks in beta reflects its intent to gather user feedback and address these challenges before a full-scale rollout.
Paying users can now explore the Tasks feature by selecting the “4.0 with scheduled tasks” option in ChatGPT’s settings, though OpenAI advises caution in relying on it for critical time-sensitive tasks during this beta phase.
