OpenAI’s ChatGPT is introducing a new memory feature that will enhance user experience for both free and paid users. While previous updates were limited to the ChatGPT Plus subscription, this new feature will be accessible to everyone. The memory function automatically retains information from previous conversations so that users don’t have to repeat themselves.
With the existing custom instructions feature, users could manually input data or instructions for future conversations. However, the memory feature takes it a step further by automatically saving relevant details from chats, such as mentioned individuals, personal interests, preferred summaries, and more. For instance, if a user expresses a preference for meeting notes with headlines, bullets, and action items summarized at the bottom, ChatGPT will remember this and summarize future meetings accordingly.
OpenAI assures users that they are in control of ChatGPT’s memory. Users can instruct the system to remember specific information, inquire about what has been remembered, and even choose to forget certain details either through conversation or settings. If desired, the memory feature can be disabled entirely.
It’s important to note that OpenAI advises against saving sensitive information, including health details, as memories. However, the effectiveness of this safeguard remains to be seen.
Those who prefer not to utilize the memory feature can easily turn it off in the ChatGPT settings, specifically under Personalization > Memory. Additionally, users have the option to delete individual data items collected by ChatGPT or engage in discussions within temporary chats that won’t be saved or analyzed.
OpenAI plans to roll out the memory feature to a small portion of ChatGPT free and Plus users in the coming week. While an official timeline for a wider release has not been shared, the inclusion of this feature for all users, free and paid, is a notable development in improving the capabilities of ChatGPT.
Source: OpenAI
