ChatGPT’s latest update makes managing your to-do list a breeze - Here’s how

OpenAI has introduced a groundbreaking addition to ChatGPT that elevates its functionality from conversational AI to a personal productivity tool. Dubbed Tasks, this beta feature allows users to schedule reminders and future actions, signaling a significant shift in how AI integrates into daily life. While similar capabilities exist in traditional digital assistants like Google Assistant or Siri, ChatGPT’s natural language prowess adds a unique edge.

The Tasks feature is available to OpenAI’s Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers starting today. It enables users to set up one-time or recurring actions by simply instructing ChatGPT. Whether it’s receiving a daily weather update at 7 AM, a reminder to renew a passport, or a joke to entertain the kids before bedtime, ChatGPT’s Tasks is ready to assist.

Getting started is straightforward: users must select the “4o with scheduled tasks” option from the model picker. From there, they can type their requirements in natural language, specifying what needs to be done and when. Additionally, ChatGPT can suggest tasks based on conversation context, though user approval is necessary before any suggestion is finalized.

All scheduled tasks are easily managed either directly within the conversation threads or through a dedicated Tasks section, accessible via the profile menu on the web. Notifications for completed tasks are sent across platforms, including web, desktop, and mobile, ensuring seamless user updates. However, users are currently limited to ten active tasks at a time—a feature designed to maintain simplicity and prevent overloading.

An Exclusive Feature for Subscribers

For now, Tasks remains a premium feature, part of OpenAI’s subscription offerings. Plans include monthly tiers priced at $20 and $200, catering to individuals and professional teams. OpenAI has not indicated if Tasks will eventually become available to free-tier users, further emphasizing its value as a premium enhancement.

This update signifies a major leap for ChatGPT, moving it beyond its origins as a conversational tool. Until now, it operated purely in real time, addressing immediate queries. Tasks redefines its purpose, allowing it to become a proactive assistant capable of organizing schedules, managing priorities, and streamlining workflows.

The Bigger Vision: Beyond Scheduling

OpenAI’s ambitions for ChatGPT extend far beyond basic scheduling. According to reports, the company is also working on Operator, an advanced AI agent designed to autonomously control computers. Similarly, hints about a feature codenamed Caterpillar suggest upcoming capabilities that could allow ChatGPT to navigate websites, analyze problems, summarize data, and retrieve specific information, all integrated seamlessly with Tasks. Notifications would keep users informed upon completion of such actions, blending simplicity with sophistication.

These developments align with the growing trend toward “agentic AI,” where artificial intelligence evolves into an autonomous problem-solver rather than a reactive tool. The vision includes creating systems capable of learning from feedback, interacting with their environments, and making independent decisions.

Economic Strategy and User Expectations

Introducing Tasks also reflects OpenAI’s strategy to monetize its AI infrastructure effectively. Features like these justify the cost of premium subscriptions while showcasing the value they offer. However, reliability remains a question mark. Past iterations of AI-driven tools have struggled to deliver consistently accurate results. For example, early demonstrations of OpenAI’s agent-like systems occasionally produced errors, leaving users wary of their dependability.

By launching Tasks as a beta feature, OpenAI acknowledges the need for refinement and user feedback. This iterative approach allows the company to address potential flaws and optimize performance before considering a broader rollout.

Competitive Edge: What Sets Tasks Apart

Compared to digital assistants like Siri or Alexa, ChatGPT’s Tasks offers a more personalized experience. Its advanced natural language capabilities enable it to understand nuanced instructions and provide contextual responses. While other assistants excel at executing straightforward commands, ChatGPT’s ability to engage in meaningful conversations adds a layer of versatility.

Nevertheless, Tasks currently operates as a scripted system, executing predefined instructions rather than adapting dynamically. OpenAI’s long-term goal is to develop AI systems that can learn, adapt, and evolve—traits essential for future advancements in agentic AI.

Practical Use Cases

For paying subscribers, Tasks opens up a world of possibilities:

• Daily Planning: Schedule regular updates, such as weather forecasts or motivational quotes, to stay informed and inspired.
• Personal Reminders: Ensure you never miss an important date or deadline by setting up reminders for birthdays, meetings, or renewals.
• Family Fun: Add a touch of whimsy to your routine with lighthearted tasks like bedtime jokes or trivia for kids.

These small conveniences highlight the practical value of integrating AI into everyday life.

A Word of Caution

While Tasks represents a significant step forward, it’s important to remember that it’s still in beta. Users are encouraged to experiment but should avoid relying on the feature for mission-critical tasks, at least until OpenAI irons out potential issues. Time-sensitive reminders or crucial updates may benefit from backup solutions to ensure reliability.

The launch of Tasks showcases how AI is evolving to become more embedded in daily workflows. It’s not just about answering questions anymore—it’s about anticipating needs, managing priorities, and enhancing productivity. For OpenAI, this is a stepping stone toward creating AI systems that are not only efficient but also deeply integrated into users’ lives.

As OpenAI continues to refine Tasks and explore advanced features like Operator and Caterpillar, the possibilities for AI-driven productivity tools seem limitless. Whether you’re a professional juggling deadlines, a parent managing a household, or simply someone looking to simplify daily routines, ChatGPT’s Tasks feature offers a glimpse into the future of intelligent assistance.

For now, subscribers can explore Tasks by selecting the “4o with scheduled tasks” option and experimenting with its capabilities. While it’s not yet perfect, this feature sets the stage for an exciting evolution in how AI can help us organize and enhance our lives. The age of truly interactive, autonomous AI assistance is closer than ever—and Tasks is just the beginning.