In an exciting development for paid users of OpenAI's ChatGPT, the platform has launched a groundbreaking feature that allows users to schedule reminders and set recurring tasks. This new beta functionality, aptly named "tasks," is gradually being rolled out to ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users globally this week.

With this innovative tasks feature, users can now easily manage their schedules, asking ChatGPT to remind them of important events like, “Remind me when my passport expires in six months.” The AI assistant will deliver timely push notifications through the chosen platform when reminders are due. Not only does it handle simple reminders, but users can also configure recurring requests—imagine saying, “Every Friday, give me a weekend plan based on my location and the weather forecast,” or “Provide me with a daily news briefing every morning at 7 a.m.”

This significant update marks OpenAI's initial steps towards developing AI models that exhibit a degree of autonomy, often referred to as AI agents. Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has hinted at a pivotal year for AI agents, predicting they could soon "join the workforce" as early as 2025. While the tasks feature represents a preliminary version of such an agentic system, it brings practical functionality that users have come to expect from modern digital assistants like Siri and Alexa. The unique ability to schedule information requests sets ChatGPT apart, showcasing capabilities that traditional digital assistants struggle to offer.

To access the new tasks feature, users can simply select "4o with scheduled tasks" from a dropdown menu in the ChatGPT interface. From there, it’s as easy as chatting to set a reminder or an action. OpenAI notes that ChatGPT may even suggest tasks based on conversation topics, enhancing the personalized experience. Users can manage tasks by chatting directly with the AI assistant across platforms or through a dedicated task management tab available exclusively in the web app.

One intriguing aspect of this feature is ChatGPT's ability to browse the internet on a fixed schedule. Users can instruct the AI to check once a month for concert tickets from their favorite artists in their area. However, it’s worth noting that while ChatGPT can check availability for tickets, it won’t send alerts the moment they go live or make purchases on behalf of users—yet another step towards developing advanced systems that can autonomously perform more complex tasks.

OpenAI is keen to refine the tasks feature in this beta phase, gathering insights into user behavior before expanding its availability to mobile app users and those on the free tier. However, users should note that task setting is currently not supported in the Advanced Voice Mode.

Despite advancements, AI assistants still face challenges with relatively simple tasks, such as setting timers or reminders. As OpenAI and other technology companies like Google push the boundaries of AI capabilities, they continuously explore creative solutions for everyday functionalities. Looking ahead, OpenAI plans to introduce more sophisticated agentic systems, including one known as "Operator," which is rumored to have capabilities for writing code and booking travel. This update could arrive as soon as the coming weeks, raising the excitement around what AI can accomplish.

As OpenAI ventures into more advanced agentic systems, it also prepares for the challenges these innovations may bring. While "tasks" demonstrates a controlled range of capabilities, the rollout of more independent AI systems may test OpenAI's safeguards in exciting new ways.

Stay tuned for future updates, as the landscape of AI is changing rapidly, and you won't want to miss a moment of what's to come!