ChatGPT Update: Now Remembering Your Preferences and Needs

Shortly after launching its powerful "code interpreter," ChatGPT has rolled out a significant update that allows it to remember your preferences and needs. OpenAI introduced customizable instructions for ChatGPT on July 21, 2023, in response to user feedback about the need to reset preferences in every session. This feature enhances user control over the chatbot.

Initially available as a beta test for Plus users, the feature will soon be accessible to all users, expanding beyond Europe and the United Kingdom.

Previously, users had to repeatedly specify how they wanted ChatGPT to respond, complicating longer conversations. Now, with customizable instructions, users can establish their preferences once, enabling ChatGPT to recall these settings in future interactions. For example, a teacher preparing a lesson no longer needs to repeat that they are teaching third-grade science, and developers can specify their preferred programming languages just once.

OpenAI has been testing these customizable instructions with a select group. Users can describe their chatting preferences in two fields, with changes taking effect in the next conversation and a character limit of 1500 per response.

However, it's important to understand that these customizable instructions are monitored by the Moderation API, meaning any instructions that violate usage policies may be ignored or rejected.

Web and iOS users can find this feature under the "Settings" page in ChatGPT. OpenAI has acknowledged that during the testing phase, ChatGPT might not consistently understand customizable instructions, occasionally overlooking them or applying them unexpectedly.

This update significantly enhances user experience by making interactions more personalized and cohesive, transforming how you engage with ChatGPT.