OpenAI has unveiled an exciting new feature for its ChatGPT platform called Tasks. Currently in beta, this functionality is designed to enhance user experience by enabling scheduling and automation directly within the ChatGPT web platform. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
What is the Tasks Feature?
Tasks allows users to set reminders or schedule actions in natural language through ChatGPT. Whether it’s a one-off reminder or a recurring task, this feature is designed to make the platform more practical for daily productivity.
For example, users can request, “Send me a morning summary of the latest tech news at 8:00 am every weekday,” and ChatGPT will automatically perform the action at the scheduled time. Tasks can generate text or even create images as part of the action, but they remain confined to the ChatGPT platform for now, without integration with external tools or devices.
Who Can Use It?
As of now, the Tasks feature is in beta and is only available to paid subscribers on the following plans:
- ChatGPT Plus
- ChatGPT Teams
- ChatGPT Pro
OpenAI plans to extend this functionality to users on the free tier by the end of the year, making it accessible to a wider audience.
How to Access Tasks
Tasks can be set up in two ways:
- Via the Tasks Page: Navigate to the Tasks section through the profile menu on the ChatGPT web interface.
- Natural Language Commands: Type a command directly into the chatbot, such as “Remind me to drink water every two hours,” and the feature will configure it for you.
Key Features and Limitations
What Tasks Can Do:
- Set One-Off or Recurring Reminders: Great for daily summaries, motivational messages, or even personalized content generation.
- Perform Actions at Specific Times: This includes generating text or creating images, such as having ChatGPT draft a daily email or sketch out an idea.
Current Limitations:
- Confined to ChatGPT: Tasks currently operate solely within the platform and don’t integrate with external tools like Google Calendar or Alexa.
- Web Interface Only: The feature is limited to the ChatGPT web version, with no support for mobile apps or the Advanced Voice Mode during the beta phase.
How Does Tasks Differ from Other Scheduling Tools?
While Tasks is reminiscent of traditional scheduling apps, it stands out by bringing ChatGPT’s AI capabilities into the mix. Instead of merely setting a reminder, the feature enables the chatbot to perform actions, like generating or delivering content, at the specified time. This positions Tasks as more than just a scheduler—it’s a step toward making ChatGPT a proactive assistant.
Why is This Feature Important?
The introduction of Tasks marks a significant step toward giving ChatGPT more agent-like functionalities. By combining memory, automation, and multi-step execution, OpenAI is positioning the platform as a more integral part of daily workflows.
During the beta phase, OpenAI is focusing on gathering user feedback to refine the feature. This iterative process ensures that Tasks evolves into a practical, user-friendly tool by the time it rolls out to all users.
What’s Next for Tasks?
OpenAI plans to extend Tasks to free-tier users by the end of the year, broadening its accessibility. While it currently lacks external integrations, future iterations could bring compatibility with calendars, task management apps, or smart devices, further enhancing its utility.
Final Thoughts
The Tasks feature in ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize how users interact with the platform. From scheduling recurring reminders to automating content creation, Tasks transforms ChatGPT from a reactive chatbot into a proactive assistant.
If you’re a subscriber to ChatGPT Plus, Teams, or Pro, it’s worth exploring Tasks now to see how it can enhance your productivity. For free-tier users, keep an eye out—this exciting feature may be available to you soon.