OpenAI is taking a giant leap in AI personalization with the introduction of custom instructions for ChatGPT. This groundbreaking feature, currently in beta and initially available to Plus plan users, is set to transform the way users interact with AI.
Personalizing AI Interactions
The custom instructions feature is OpenAI’s response to a common user challenge: the need to start each ChatGPT conversation from scratch. This new feature allows users to set preferences or requirements that ChatGPT will consider in all future interactions, eliminating the need to repeat instructions or information.
Imagine a teacher crafting a lesson plan for third-grade science. With custom instructions, they no longer need to specify their teaching context in every conversation. Or consider a developer who prefers a language other than Python. They can set this preference once, and ChatGPT will understand it in all future interactions.
Enhancing the Plugin Experience
Custom instructions don’t just enhance direct interactions with ChatGPT. They also improve the user experience with plugins by sharing relevant information. For example, if a user specifies their city in the instructions and uses a plugin for restaurant reservations, the model might include the user’s city when calling the plugin.
Beta Limitations and Safety Measures
As with any beta release, there may be some bumps along the road. ChatGPT might occasionally overlook instructions or apply them when not intended. However, OpenAI has taken steps to ensure user safety. The Moderation API is designed to prevent the saving of instructions that violate OpenAI’s Usage Policies, and the model can refuse or ignore instructions that lead to policy-violating responses.
Privacy and User Control
OpenAI may use custom instructions to improve model performance, but users can disable this via their data controls. The company takes steps to remove personal identifiers found in custom instructions before they are used to improve model performance.
Availability
While Plus users can start using custom instructions by opting into the beta, it’s important to note that this feature is currently not available in the UK and EU.
