ChatGPT: A Milestone Year for OpenAI's AI Chatbot in 2023
OpenAI’s ChatGPT, a revolutionary AI-driven text-generating chatbot, experienced significant growth in 2023. Since its launch in November 2022, ChatGPT achieved an impressive 100 million weekly active users, prompting substantial investments from OpenAI.
On November 6, OpenAI hosted its inaugural developer conference, OpenAI DevDay, where a range of exciting updates were announced. These included GPT-4 Turbo, a faster iteration of GPT-4, along with a multimodal API. The conference also introduced the GPT Store, enabling users to create and monetize their own custom GPTs, as well as the upgraded text-to-image tool, DALL-E 3.
However, the end of 2023 saw some turbulence within the company, including the abrupt firing and rapid reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman, which raised questions about the company's strategic direction and provided an opening for potential competitors. As the year closed, OpenAI and Microsoft faced legal challenges from The New York Times, which sued for alleged copyright infringement involving the training of AI models.
Timeline of Key ChatGPT Updates and Releases in 2023
December 2023
* Worker Productivity Study Released
A study from Harvard and MIT explored the impact of ChatGPT on productivity among over 750 white-collar workers. The findings revealed that while the chatbot assisted with creative tasks, it often led to inaccuracies in analytical work.
* NYT Sues OpenAI and Microsoft
The New York Times filed a lawsuit in Manhattan, claiming that millions of its articles were utilized to train AI models without permission. The Times is seeking to have these models and any related training data destroyed and is requesting compensation for "billions of dollars in damages."
* ChatGPT Plus Subscriptions Reopened
After temporarily halting ChatGPT Plus subscriptions due to high demand, Sam Altman announced that sign-ups were back, allowing users access to GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo.
OpenAI Partners with Axel Springer
OpenAI entered a partnership with Axel Springer, a prominent Berlin-based publisher. This collaboration aims to enhance access to high-quality, real-time news through AI tools, with ChatGPT incorporating recent articles from Axel Springer.
* Stanford Study on Cheating
Research from Stanford University found that chatbots, including ChatGPT, haven’t contributed to a surge in high school cheating. In a survey of over 40 U.S. high schools, cheating rates remained consistent with previous years.
* User Concerns Over ChatGPT's Performance
Some users began to notice that ChatGPT seemed less responsive in November, leading to speculations of "seasonal depression." OpenAI acknowledged awareness of the issue but could not provide clarity on its cause.
* UK Legal System Embraces ChatGPT
New guidance from the UK Judicial Office permits judges to utilize ChatGPT for crafting legal rulings, emphasizing responsible AI usage while considering bias and privacy.
* Revisions to Terms of Service
In response to Google's DeepMind research revealing that ChatGPT replicated training data when prompted, OpenAI updated its terms of service to ban requests for infinite word repetition.
* AI-Generated Legislation in Brazil
A bill in Brazil was enacted by city lawmakers, unbeknownst to them, with significant sections reportedly crafted using ChatGPT. The city lawmaker later admitted that the AI had assisted in drafting the proposal.
* Anticipated GPT Store Delayed Until 2024
According to an Axios memo, the launch of OpenAI's GPT Store, first announced at DevDay, will be postponed to early 2024.
November 2023
* Mobile App Milestones
Following its May and July launches for iOS and Android, ChatGPT's mobile applications surpassed 110 million downloads, generating nearly $30 million in consumer revenue, as reported by data.ai.
* ChatGPT Celebrates Annual Milestone
OpenAI celebrated ChatGPT's one-year anniversary, reflecting on its rapid transformation from a research preview to a significant player in the AI field. In a post on X, Sam Altman expressed pride over the journey so far.
* No AI App of the Year Award
Despite achieving remarkable milestones, neither Apple nor Google recognized an AI app as their 'App of the Year' for 2023, even with ChatGPT's unprecedented rise.
* Research Uncovers Data Concerns
A Google DeepMind test found that ChatGPT exhibited vulnerabilities, revealing identifiable information during certain prompt scenarios, prompting reassessments of its data handling practices.
* Phishing Attacks Surge
A report by SlashNext highlights a staggering 1,265% increase in phishing emails, attributing this rise to the use of AI tools like ChatGPT by cybercriminals to craft convincing schemes.
* Controversial Speech in South Africa
Social media speculations suggested that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's speech was drafted using ChatGPT. However, officials denied the claims amid investigations.
* ChatGPT Voice to Compete with Siri
OpenAI's newly released ChatGPT Voice feature allows users to replace Siri on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max by using the Action Button for voice interactions with the chatbot.
* Sam Altman Returns to Leadership
Following his brief ousting, Altman was reinstated as CEO, with a new "agreement in principle" aimed at reforming the board to include members more aligned with OpenAI’s nonprofit vision.
* Exploring AI in Education
OpenAI expressed intentions to examine how AI, particularly ChatGPT, can benefit educational environments, addressing criticisms from educators concerned about academic integrity.
* Temporary Pause on ChatGPT Plus Subscriptions
Following the Dev Day flurry, Altman announced a temporary halt on new ChatGPT Plus subscriptions due to overwhelming demand and interest in custom GPT features.
* Child Safety Concerns
An independent evaluation from Common Sense Media rated ChatGPT as potentially unsafe for younger audiences, citing concerns over transparency and privacy.
* DDoS Attack Linked to Outage
OpenAI confirmed that a DDoS attack caused outages impacting ChatGPT's availability, leaving users unable to access the service intermittently.
* Launch of GPT-4 Turbo
At its first DevDay conference, OpenAI introduced GPT-4 Turbo, offering both text-only and multimodal versions to enhance user experience.
* Fine-Tuning Improvements for GPT-4
GPT-4's fine-tuning process will feature stronger oversight compared to GPT-3.5 to enhance the model’s reliability and adaptiveness based on user feedback.
* User-Created GPTs and Marketplace Opportunity
OpenAI announced that users could easily create and monetize their GPTs without coding skills, revolutionizing content creation and customization.
* Rapid User Growth
Achieving a remarkable milestone of 100 million weekly active users shortly after launch, ChatGPT has gained traction among developers, including many Fortune 500 companies.
* DALL-E 3 Introduced via API
OpenAI made DALL-E 3, its cutting-edge text-to-image model, available through an API, enhancing multimedia capabilities.
* Legal Support Assurance
In response to growing legal concerns, OpenAI committed to covering legal fees for clients facing lawsuits related to copyright issues stemming from AI-generated outputs.
* Multimodal API Flaws Recognized
Despite the launch of its multimodal API, studies indicated persistent flaws in its functionality that require further attention.
* Assistants API Launch for Developers
OpenAI introduced the Assistants API, enabling developers to integrate agent-like experiences within their applications.
October 2023
* Mobile App Revenue Insights
While ChatGPT ranks high in downloads, it surprisingly lags in revenue compared to certain competing AI chat applications.
* New Features for Plus Users
Plus users gained new beta features allowing document uploads for analysis directly within ChatGPT, streamlining user interactions.
* Web Browsing Feature Officially Launched
OpenAI reintroduced ChatGPT’s browsing feature, allowing users to access real-time information beyond the previous data cut-off in September 2021.
* DALL-E 3 Integration with ChatGPT
This significant update enhances image-generation capabilities within the ChatGPT interface, simplifying user experience.
* Research Highlights GPT-4 Vulnerabilities
A study affiliated with Microsoft raised concerns regarding the "trustworthiness" and potential for biased outputs from GPT-4.
* Record Revenue Achieved
September saw ChatGPT’s mobile app generate approximately $4.58 million in revenue, while downloads surged.
September 2023
* Reinstated Web Browsing Capability
OpenAI confirmed that ChatGPT's web browsing feature is fully restored, allowing access to up-to-date information.
* Introduction of Voice Feature
The addition of a voice capability enables users to engage with ChatGPT verbally, enriching interaction.
* Investigative Actions by Polish Authorities
Poland initiated an investigation into OpenAI regarding potential violations of GDPR.
* Launch of DALL-E 3 with Enhanced Features
The improved DALL-E 3 offers chatbot integration for seamless image requests.
* Opera GX Incorporates ChatGPT
Opera GX introduced its AI browser Aria, powered by ChatGPT, enabling users to receive interactive game-related content.
August 2023
* Educational Resources for Teachers
OpenAI provided guidelines for educators to effectively use ChatGPT in classrooms, addressing concerns about academic integrity.
* Launch of ChatGPT Enterprise
Designed for businesses, ChatGPT Enterprise offers enhanced privacy, data analytics, and customization options.
* U.S. User Engagement Remains Moderate
Recent research suggests only about 18% of Americans have engaged with ChatGPT, indicating its gradual adoption.
* New Fine-Tuning Features for GPT-3.5 Turbo
Companies can enhance GPT-3.5 Turbo’s performance tailored to their specific needs while managing costs.
* Acquisition of Global Illumination
OpenAI announced its acquisition of Global Illumination, aiming to enrich creative tools and experiences.
* Custom Instructions for All Users
OpenAI rolled out a feature allowing users across all tiers to personalize their interactions with ChatGPT.
* Regulatory Compliance in China
New Chinese regulations necessitated AI applications, including ChatGPT, to secure administrative licenses for operation.
July 2023
* Android App Launches
ChatGPT became available for Android users in several key markets, enhancing accessibility.
* Pre-Order Now for Android Release
OpenAI set up a preorder system ahead of its Android app launch, generating anticipation.
* Customized Instructions Feature Unveiled
Users can now provide ongoing instructions for enhanced interaction with ChatGPT.
* FTC Investigation into OpenAI
The FTC's exploratory investigation centers on allegations regarding misleading statements made by ChatGPT.
* General Access to GPT-4
As of July 6, OpenAI lifted access restrictions to GPT-4 for developers with good payment history.
* Web Browsing Functionality Activated
ChatGPT now includes a Bing browsing feature, enhancing its information retrieval capabilities.
* Mercedes Integrates ChatGPT in Vehicles
Mercedes owners gained early access to ChatGPT functionality within their car's infotainment systems.
* iPad and Siri Support for ChatGPT
The ChatGPT app was optimized for iPad and introduced support for Siri, improving user experience.
May 2023
* Texas Court Mandates AI Disclosure
A Texas judge ordered lawyers to affirm if any AI drafted court filings.
* Expanding Global Availability
ChatGPT was launched in over 30 new countries, broadening its user base.
* Initial Mobile App Rollout
The ChatGPT app debuted on iOS, integrating voice input and conversation syncing.
* Malware Spread via ChatGPT Lures
Facebook revealed an increase in malware linked to deceptive ChatGPT-themed ads.
April 2023
* OpenAI's $300M Share Sale
OpenAI closed a share sale at a valuation of up to $29 billion, with investments from leading venture firms.
* Preview of ChatGPT Business
OpenAI announced the upcoming ChatGPT Business tier, designed for companies needing data control.
* Trademark Application for “GPT”
OpenAI sought to trademark “GPT” to protect its innovative technology.
* Auto-GPT Gains Attention
An open-source app, Auto-GPT, emerged to automate tasks using OpenAI’s models, sparking curiosity.
* FTC Warnings on AI Fraud Potential
The FTC cautioned about the risks of fraudulent activities spurred by AI, including ChatGPT.
* SuperChat Allows Interaction with Characters
A new app named SuperChat enables users to engage with fictional and historical personalities via ChatGPT.
* Compliance Required from OpenAI in Italy
Italy’s data protection authority outlined conditions for lifting ChatGPT's suspension due to GDPR concerns.
* Research on AI Toxicity
A study revealed methods for increasing toxicity in ChatGPT outputs based on assigned personas.
* 'ChatGPT for X' Startups Emerge from Y Combinator
Several startups showcased their interpretations of "ChatGPT for X" at Y Combinator's Demo Day.
* Italy Orders Access Block on ChatGPT
Italy mandated OpenAI to block access to ChatGPT, citing GDPR breaches.
March 2023
* Prominent Figures Sign Open Letter for AI Pause
Over 1,100 notable signatories, including Elon Musk, called for a temporary halt on AI development.
This clearly defined timeline captures the extensive developments and challenges experienced by ChatGPT and OpenAI throughout 2023. Keep an eye out for further updates as we transition into 2024.
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