ChatGPT Now Allows You to Schedule Reminders and Recurring Tasks

OpenAI is rolling out a new beta feature called "tasks" for paying ChatGPT users (ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro). This feature allows users to schedule reminders and set up recurring requests. The rollout begins this week, and it aims to enhance the user experience by providing better task management capabilities within the AI assistant. Users will be able to organize their tasks directly through ChatGPT, streamlining productivity.

With the new "tasks" feature in ChatGPT, users can set both simple reminders and recurring requests. For example, users can receive reminders for specific dates like passport expiration or set up weekly plans. Additionally, they can schedule daily updates like news briefings at a chosen time. This feature enhances task management by offering personalized, timely notifications and support for regular updates, available to users with ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro subscriptions.Users can access the tasks feature by selecting "4o with scheduled tasks" in ChatGPT’s dropdown menu. From there, they can create reminders or actions, with ChatGPT sometimes suggesting tasks based on prior interactions.

Tasks can be managed via chat on any platform, or through a dedicated tasks manager tab available in the web app. This feature provides users with an easy and interactive way to handle scheduling and reminders within the ChatGPT environment.With the tasks feature, ChatGPT can browse the web on a set schedule for specific tasks, like checking for concert tickets. However, it won’t run continuous background searches or make purchases. Users can set reminders for periodic checks, but real-time alerts or transactions are not supported. This represents a step toward more advanced AI agents that can handle such tasks independently.

OpenAI is using the beta period for the tasks feature to gather insights before making it more widely available on its mobile app and free-tier version of ChatGPT. For now, users cannot set tasks through Advanced Voice Mode during this beta launch. This phased rollout helps OpenAI refine the feature based on user feedback and usage patterns.While AI assistants have advanced significantly, they still face challenges with basic tasks that smartphones handle with ease, such as setting timers or reminders. OpenAI, Google, and other developers have created workarounds for these issues. However, OpenAI aims for ChatGPT to tackle more complex tasks in the future, pushing the boundaries beyond these simple actions. This evolution will likely lead to more capable and versatile AI assistants.

OpenAI is preparing to launch more advanced AI systems, including a reportedly upcoming agent called Operator. This new agent could perform tasks such as writing code and booking travel. According to Bloomberg, Operator is expected to be available in the coming weeks. This marks a significant step towards expanding AI capabilities beyond basic tasks, bringing even more utility to users.As OpenAI advances to more independent AI systems, such as the upcoming Operator, there are growing concerns over potential challenges. While the "Tasks" feature provides a controlled set of abilities, the introduction of more complex systems could test OpenAI’s safeguards. As these AI systems gain more autonomy, ensuring they operate safely and responsibly will become increasingly crucial in managing their broader impacts.