ChatGPT's New Tasks Feature Signals OpenAI's Move Toward AI Agentic Capabilities
OpenAI has introduced a new feature on ChatGPT called Tasks, allowing users to schedule reminders and actions for the AI chatbot. This feature, currently available to paid subscribers, is set to roll out to free tier users later this year.
Expanding AI Capabilities
Tasks seems to be OpenAI's initial step towards incorporating agentic capabilities into their chatbot. This new feature, announced in a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), is currently in beta for ChatGPT Plus, Teams, and Pro users, with plans to extend it to free tier users soon.
The Tasks page, accessible only via the web version, enables users to schedule reminders and actions, enhancing the functionality of the AI chatbot.
Enhanced User Experience
Tasks essentially functions as a scheduling tool. Users can input prompts directly or navigate to the Tasks page through the profile menu to create new tasks. These tasks can be one-time reminders or recurring actions scheduled for specific dates and times.
With Tasks, users can request the chatbot to perform specific actions at designated times. For instance, users can set up tasks like receiving daily news summaries or motivational messages before workouts, enhancing the personalized user experience.
Moving Toward AI Agents
While setting reminders is a common feature in many applications, the ability for the AI chatbot to execute actions at specified times represents a significant advancement. Although not a fully agentic function, as actions remain within the chatbot platform, it showcases the AI's capacity for memory and multi-step execution, traits associated with AI agents.
There have been speculations about OpenAI developing its first AI agent, codenamed Operator, and Tasks could be a stepping stone towards this ambitious goal of creating sophisticated AI models.
Conclusion
OpenAI's introduction of the Tasks feature on ChatGPT demonstrates a strategic move towards enhancing AI capabilities and user interactions. By enabling users to schedule reminders and actions, OpenAI is paving the way for more advanced AI functionality within its chatbot platform.
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