OpenAI has launched a new “Tasks” feature for ChatGPT, allowing users to schedule reminders and automate tasks, marking a shift from a reactive to a more proactive AI agent. While this development positions ChatGPT in competition with established digital assistants like Alexa, it is seen as a minor update, with OpenAI’s president describing it as “baby steps” towards achieving the full potential of AI agents.
OpenAI has introduced a new feature called “Tasks” for ChatGPT, marking a significant step in the evolution of AI agents. This feature allows users to schedule reminders and automate tasks, such as daily updates or reminders to buy groceries. While similar functionalities are already available in other digital assistants, this development is noteworthy for ChatGPT as it transitions from a reactive tool to a more proactive agent capable of anticipating user needs.
The “Tasks” feature enables users to set specific prompts for ChatGPT, such as checking stock prices at a designated time or reminding them to learn a new word each evening. This capability positions ChatGPT in direct competition with established digital assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, which has been slow to upgrade its functionalities. The introduction of this feature suggests a shift in how users can interact with AI, moving towards a more integrated and anticipatory experience.
Amazon, which currently leads the market in smart speakers, faces significant pressure to enhance Alexa’s capabilities in response to OpenAI’s advancements. The company is working on a generative AI version of Alexa but has acknowledged that there are still technical challenges to overcome before a full rollout. This competitive landscape highlights the urgency for existing digital assistants to innovate and keep pace with emerging AI technologies.
Apple, on the other hand, is taking a more gradual approach to upgrading Siri, with a fully revamped version unlikely to be released this year. The incremental nature of OpenAI’s “Tasks” feature reflects a broader trend in the industry, where advancements in AI capabilities are being rolled out in stages rather than as revolutionary changes. This cautious approach underscores the complexities involved in developing truly intelligent and context-aware AI systems.
Overall, while the introduction of the “Tasks” feature is a positive step for OpenAI and ChatGPT, it is still considered a minor update compared to the ambitious visions presented in previous demonstrations. OpenAI’s president, Greg Brockman, referred to this development as “baby steps,” indicating that there is still a long way to go before achieving the full potential of AI agents. The message for the broader generative AI landscape may be to temper expectations, as the journey towards fully autonomous and intelligent agents is likely to be gradual and incremental.