OpenAI, the leading artificial intelligence research laboratory, has announced the introduction of new “memory” controls for its popular chatbot, ChatGPT. This exciting development allows users to instruct ChatGPT to remember or forget specific information during conversations. The feature is currently being tested with a small group of users, with a wider rollout planned for the future.
In a blog post, OpenAI explained that ChatGPT can now retain information between chats, enabling it to provide more relevant responses. Users can ask ChatGPT to remember specific details or allow it to pick up information on its own. Over time, ChatGPT’s memory will improve, resulting in an enhanced user experience.
The introduction of memory controls opens up a range of possibilities for ChatGPT users. For instance, if a user wants ChatGPT to remember that they live in the suburbs and prefer driving over public transit, they can simply instruct it to do so. Similarly, if someone wants advice on child-rearing that is tailored to younger children because they have a kindergartner, they can highlight this information to ChatGPT.
OpenAI also highlighted the potential business applications of memory controls. For example, ChatGPT could remember tone, voice, and formatting preferences for blog posts, or recall specific languages and frameworks for programming tasks.
It’s worth noting that GPTs, which are custom chatbots powered by OpenAI’s models, already have their own memories. However, these memories are not shared with ChatGPT or vice versa. The memory feature can be disabled at any time from the ChatGPT settings menu, and users have the option to view and delete specific memories or clear all memories.
Privacy concerns are addressed by OpenAI, as ChatGPT has the potential to accumulate sensitive personal details over time. While the memory feature is enabled by default, OpenAI assures users that it is taking steps to prevent ChatGPT from proactively remembering sensitive information, such as health details, unless explicitly requested by the user. OpenAI also mentions that memories and chats with GPTs are not shared with GPT builders.
To further enhance privacy, OpenAI is introducing a new feature called Temporary Chat. Initially available to a limited number of users, Temporary Chat allows for a dialogue with a blank slate. ChatGPT will not have access to previous conversations or memories but will follow custom instructions if enabled. OpenAI does mention that it may retain a copy of Temporary Chat conversations for up to 30 days for safety reasons.
The introduction of memory controls for ChatGPT marks another significant milestone in the development of AI-powered chatbots. OpenAI’s commitment to privacy and user control is evident in the new features, providing users with the ability to shape their interactions and ensure the protection of sensitive information. As the rollout expands, more users will be able to benefit from the improved capabilities of ChatGPT and its memory controls.
