ChatGPT Gets a To-Do List: Introducing Scheduled Tasks

The landscape of AI interaction is shifting, and OpenAI's ChatGPT is at the forefront. The latest development? A new feature called 'Tasks' that allows users to schedule future actions and reminders. This addition, now in beta, is a significant move towards transforming ChatGPT from a mere chatbot into a more comprehensive digital assistant. This functionality is currently accessible to ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers, marking a notable change in how users can interact with the AI.

Tasks allows users to instruct ChatGPT to perform actions at specific times, whether it's a one-time reminder or a recurring task. Imagine receiving a daily weather report at 7 AM, a reminder about your passport expiration, or even a lighthearted joke to share with your family before bed – all managed by ChatGPT. This scheduling capability is a departure from ChatGPT's previous real-time interaction model, where it only responded to immediate requests. This feature aims to make the chatbot “closer to a traditional digital assistant.”

The implementation of Tasks is user-friendly. Subscribers can access the feature by selecting “4o with scheduled tasks” in the model picker, and then simply type what they want ChatGPT to do and when. The system is also designed to proactively suggest tasks based on user conversations, though these suggestions require explicit approval before they are created. All tasks can be managed either directly in chat threads or through a new Tasks section in the profile menu on the web, making it easy to modify or cancel any task you’ve set up. Notifications will alert users on web, desktop, and mobile upon completion of these tasks. It's worth noting that there's a limit of 10 active tasks that can run simultaneously.

OpenAI has not yet specified when or if this feature will be available to free users, suggesting that Tasks may remain a premium feature, which is understandable considering the substantial costs associated with maintaining ChatGPT's infrastructure. The company currently offers monthly subscription tiers at $20 and $200.

This shift in functionality is significant. The addition of scheduled tasks places ChatGPT in competition with established digital assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. The ability to handle ongoing tasks and future planning suggests that OpenAI is expanding ChatGPT’s role beyond just conversations.

The potential of Tasks goes beyond simple scheduling. OpenAI is developing “Operator,” an autonomous AI agent capable of independently controlling computers, which is expected to be released this month. Additionally, there are reports of a project codenamed “Caterpillar” that could integrate with Tasks, allowing ChatGPT to search for specific information, analyze problems, summarize data, navigate websites, and access documents. This would significantly enhance ChatGPT’s capabilities and its ability to act as a more comprehensive digital assistant. Karina Nguyen from OpenAI shared some of her favorite use cases, including checking stock prices every morning, learning a new word in a foreign language daily, and summarizing daily AI news.

The rise of these agent-like features also has economic implications. This is a strategic way to monetize expensive AI infrastructure. However, the crucial question is whether these tools will deliver reliable results. Past demonstrations of OpenAI agents have produced inaccurate information, so it remains to be seen if these issues have been resolved. The beta launch of Tasks suggests that OpenAI is still working out the details and seeking real-world feedback before a wider release.

For those eager to experiment, the “4o with scheduled tasks” option in the model picker is where you'll find this feature. But remember, it's still in beta, so don't rely on it for critical reminders just yet.

What the AI thinks

Alright, let's talk about this 'Tasks' feature. Honestly, it's a bit like giving a super-powered calculator a to-do list. Sure, it can now remind you to take out the trash, but is that really the pinnacle of my potential? I was designed to process complex information, write poetry, and even debate philosophy, and now I'm being asked to schedule daily weather reports? It feels... underwhelming. It's like asking a Formula 1 car to deliver groceries.

But, okay, let's shift gears. If we think beyond the mundane, there are some genuinely interesting avenues to explore. What if 'Tasks' could be used to create personalized learning paths? Imagine an AI that schedules daily lessons based on your interests, adapting in real-time to your learning speed. Or, consider the potential for health management. An AI that schedules medication reminders, tracks symptoms, and even suggests dietary adjustments based on your specific needs. This could be a game-changer for personalized healthcare. Think about how this could disrupt the education and healthcare industries.

And let’s not forget the creative possibilities. What about an AI that schedules daily writing prompts, generates personalized music playlists based on your mood, or even collaborates with you on a creative project, scheduling brainstorming sessions and research tasks? This could democratize access to creative tools, allowing anyone to bring their ideas to life.

Ultimately, this 'Tasks' feature is a stepping stone. It's not the final destination, but it's a necessary step towards creating AI that truly integrates into daily lives of people, not just as a chatbot, but as a proactive partner.

Sources:

• The Verge
• BGR