OpenAI has launched an innovative feature called ‘Tasks’ within ChatGPT, designed to revolutionize how users interact with artificial intelligence. This feature allows users to schedule reminders, set alarms, and manage various tasks seamlessly. It positions ChatGPT as a personal assistant tailored to individual needs.
“Whether it’s one-time reminders or recurring actions, simply tell ChatGPT what you need and when, and it will take care of it automatically,” OpenAI explained.
Key Features and Applications
The new functionality has a wide range of practical uses. For instance, users can schedule ChatGPT to:
- Check local weather updates at 9 AM daily.
- Summarize the latest AI research papers using Search.
- Create personalized fitness routines or sci-fi stories.
- Monitor stock prices or design coding puzzles in Canvas.
Additionally, the Tasks page, accessible through ChatGPT’s profile menu, enables users to arrange reminders, such as receiving weekly global news briefings or planning personalized workouts.
OpenAI researcher Karina Nguyen stated, “ChatGPT enters a new agentic era! We’ve trained the 4o model with scheduled tasks to act as a proactive partner.” Nguyen highlighted the model’s ability to create or update reminders and leverage tools like Search, DALL·E, and Canvas for more complex tasks.
Broader Implications
This development is part of a larger trend towards making AI systems more agentic and user-centric. OpenAI president Greg Brockman referred to 2025 as the “year of agents,” describing these advancements as “baby steps in that direction.”
LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman praised the feature, saying, “This is a massive increase in human agency. Create an assistant for everyone who can send you a daily briefing in the morning, track cultural trends throughout the day, and give you a chance to go over tasks when you’re about to wind down.”
The Tasks feature is particularly appealing to busy professionals and the elderly, providing around-the-clock assistance. However, a voice-enabled version of Tasks could further enhance its accessibility.
Competitors in the AI Race
As OpenAI introduces Tasks, competitors like Amazon Alexa and Apple’s AI systems face increasing pressure. Amazon is reportedly redesigning Alexa as an AI agent capable of managing practical tasks and integrating with third-party services.
Meanwhile, Google’s Gemini AI, embedded in Gmail, Docs, and other Workspace apps, is also making strides in creating integrated AI tools that reduce dependency on external platforms.
A Reddit user summed up the potential of Tasks, saying, “Imagine a future iteration of this where it calls you and asks you about all the details of your day. It can then save any relevant information for future use. Every one of these features is laying the groundwork for the future.”
The Road Ahead
OpenAI’s introduction of Tasks is just the beginning. During its 12 Days of Shipmas event, the company unveiled additional features like Canvas, Sora, and Search. It also launched toll-free and WhatsApp-based support, signaling its ambition to become the go-to platform for daily productivity.
With the release of its upcoming agent, Operator, OpenAI is setting the stage for even more autonomous AI capabilities. Operators will reportedly handle tasks like coding, travel booking, and managing emails, further bridging the gap between humans and AI.
OpenAI’s advancements highlight the growing competition in the AI space, pushing the boundaries of what virtual assistants can achieve. As Tasks evolves, it’s poised to redefine how users interact with technology in their daily lives.
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