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OpenAI Introduces ‘Tasks’ Feature to ChatGPT for Scheduling Reminders
- Written by Andrea Miliani Former Tech News Expert
- Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Former Lead Cybersecurity Editor
OpenAI announced on Tuesday a new beta version of tasks for ChatGPT, which allows users to set reminders and get assistance with recurring actions. The new feature will roll out first for Plus, Pro, and Teams users.
In a Rush? Here are the Quick Facts!
- OpenAI is rolling out a new task feature in beta mode for ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Teams users.
- ChatGPT is taking on roles traditionally performed by virtual assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa.
- Users can access the new feature through the chat or the profile menu.
According to the announcement shared on X , users will access the tasks page through the profile menu or the chat.
Today we’re rolling out a beta version of tasks—a new way to ask ChatGPT to do things for you at a future time. Whether it’s one-time reminders or recurring actions, tell ChatGPT what you need and when, and it will automatically take care of it. pic.twitter.com/7lgvsPehHv — OpenAI (@OpenAI) January 14, 2025
“You can schedule tasks you want ChatGPT to do, such as send you a weekly global news briefing, get a daily personalized 15-minute workout, or set a reminder for the future,” states one of the posts.
According to the information shared on OpenAI’s help center , the tasks feature will be available on ChatGPT Web, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Windows users will need to wait a few more weeks.
Users don’t have to be online for ChatGPT to work on the scheduled tasks. The chatbot will do it automatically and notify users via email or push notifications once it finishes the task—this must be allowed in the browser settings for those using the web version.
In December, OpenAI released multiple new features as part of its Christmas program “12 Days of OpenAI” including a phone number to communicate with ChatGPT , a real-time video feature for ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode, and a new Pro version with a $200 monthly subscription .
Image by Racool_studio, from Freepik
U.S. Proposes New AI Chip Export Framework Amid Controversy
- Written by Kiara Fabbri Former Tech News Writer
- Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Former Lead Cybersecurity Editor
The Biden administration has unveiled a new framework aimed at regulating the export of advanced computer chips critical for artificial intelligence development.
In a Rush? Here are the Quick Facts!
- Biden administration proposed new rules to regulate AI chip exports for security reasons.
- 20 U.S. allies granted unrestricted chip access; others face strict limitations.
- Industry leaders fear the rules may harm U.S. competitiveness and innovation.
Announced Monday, the proposal seeks to balance national security concerns with economic interests . However, it has sparked backlash from industry leaders and international allies.
“In the wrong hands, powerful AI systems have the potential to exacerbate significant national security risks, including by enabling the development of weapons of mass destruction, supporting powerful offensive cyber operations, and aiding human rights abuses, such as mass surveillance,” the US Commerce Department said on Monday, as reported by the BBC .
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of preserving U.S. leadership in AI innovation. “As AI becomes more powerful, the risks to our national security become even more intense,” she said, as reported by Aljazeera .
The plan intends to safeguard AI technologies while enabling access for trusted allies. However, its global implications have raised alarm among chipmakers and foreign officials.The Semiconductor Industry Association criticized the proposal, warning it could harm U.S. competitiveness.
“The new rule risks causing unintended and lasting damage to America’s economy and global competitiveness in semiconductors and AI by ceding strategic markets to our competitors,” said SIA President John Neuffer, as reported by Aljazeera.
Nvidia, a leading chipmaker, saw its shares drop by 4% following the news, as previously noted by The Register . The company echoed concerns, stating that the restrictions could weaken innovation without improving security, as reported by the BBC.
The framework includes a 120-day comment period, allowing the incoming Trump administration to potentially reshape the policy, says Aljazeera. Jonathan Kewley, a tech legal expert, predicted: “It is absolutely sure that the Trump administration will wind back a lot of what Biden has put out there,” as reported by the BBC.
Aljazeera reports that the framework grants unrestricted chip access to 20 key allies, including Japan, the UK, and several EU nations, but imposes caps on other countries. Nations such as Mexico, Portugal, and Switzerland could face limits on the chips used for data centers and AI products.
Top European Union officials criticized the restrictions, as it reads on a statement published by European Commission’s tech and security czar Henna Virkkunen and trade chief Maroš Šefčovič-
Aljazeera says that countries subject to restrictions can apply for legal exemptions or government-to-government deals to increase their chip import limits. Despite these provisions, the policy’s potential to disrupt global supply chains remains a concern by those who see these limitations, as reported today by The Register .
Critics argue that the plan could alienate allies and inadvertently benefit competitors like China. Daniel Castro of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation warned that pressuring nations to choose between the U.S. and China could strengthen China’s position in the AI ecosystem, as reported by the BBC.
Whether the framework will bolster U.S. security or hinder its technological edge will depend on how it navigates the complex intersection of policy, industry, and global diplomacy.
