Huge ChatGPT Upgrade - Introducing “Canvas”

The video introduces “Canvas,” a new feature in ChatGPT that enhances collaboration by allowing users to edit text and code in a separate window, making the editing process more interactive and efficient. It showcases the feature’s capabilities in both coding and creative writing, while also discussing potential implications for other AI companies relying on OpenAI’s technology.

The video discusses the recent launch of a new feature called “Canvas” in ChatGPT, which enhances collaboration with the AI. This feature allows users to type prompts that open a separate window for editing text or code, enabling more interactive and targeted modifications. The presenter highlights that this feature is available to all ChatGPT users with Pro or Enterprise accounts, and once it exits beta, free users will also gain access. The Canvas feature is designed to assist with writing and coding, showcasing a more dynamic way to interact with the AI.

Canvas is built on a modified version of GPT-4, specifically trained to recognize when to utilize this collaborative tool. For writing tasks, it can suggest edits, adjust text length, change reading levels, and add emojis. In coding, it can review code, add comments, fix bugs, and even port code to different programming languages. The presenter emphasizes that this functionality allows for more precise edits without needing to rewrite entire sections, making the editing process more efficient.

The video includes a demonstration of the Canvas feature, starting with coding by creating a simple Snake game. The presenter shows how to change colors in the code and switch libraries, illustrating the ease of making specific adjustments. The Canvas interface allows users to highlight code segments and request changes, such as adding comments or fixing bugs. However, the presenter notes that the feature does not execute code, which is a limitation compared to other coding tools.

In addition to coding, the presenter explores the creative writing capabilities of Canvas. By prompting the AI to write a story about intelligent strawberries, the presenter demonstrates how the AI can suggest edits, adjust the length, and change the reading level of the text. The feature also allows for the addition of emojis and final polishing of the text. The presenter finds the emoji feature somewhat unnecessary but acknowledges the overall utility of the editing tools provided by Canvas.

Finally, the video touches on the potential implications of Canvas for other AI companies that rely on OpenAI’s API. The presenter expresses concern about “platform risk,” where companies building on top of OpenAI’s technology may face competition from OpenAI itself as it develops more integrated features. The video concludes with an invitation for viewers to share their thoughts on Canvas and the risks associated with building businesses on external platforms, encouraging engagement and discussion.