OpenAI announced a new beta feature called “Tasks” for ChatGPT, which is its entry into the virtual assistant space, where it will compete with Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa. This feature allows ChatGPT users to set future tasks. These include one-time reminders like concert ticket sales or recurring updates such as daily weather forecasts and weekly news briefings.
Tasks will also enable ChatGPT to suggest actions based on user interactions. Though users can choose to accept or decline these suggestions. The feature aims to enhance user experience by automating routine activities, making ChatGPT a more versatile assistant.
The introduction of Tasks comes amid heightened competition in the AI-powered virtual assistant market. Following the release of ChatGPT in late 2022, there was a surge in AI investment, prompting companies like Amazon to revamp their services.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy announced that an updated version of Alexa, incorporating generative AI capabilities, would be released soon. This will enable the assistant to perform actions proactively.
Similarly, Apple has been enhancing Siri with its “Apple Intelligence” technology. This upgrade includes querying the OpenAI service with user permission, as part of Apple’s partnership with Microsoft-backed OpenAI.
OpenAI plans to roll out the Tasks beta to Plus, Team, and Pro users globally, starting with the web platform in the coming days.
