OpenAI has recently unveiled an exciting new feature that allows ChatGPT users to personalize their interactions with the language model using custom instructions. This enhancement grants users the flexibility to communicate their specific preferences and guidelines, enabling the AI to generate more tailored responses without the need to reiterate instruction prompts constantly.
With the custom instructions option now available, users can avoid repetitive tasks like repeatedly instructing the chatbot to adhere to specific parameters, such as word limits or preferred writing styles. Instead, they can set up predefined guidelines for ChatGPT to consider during conversations, streamlining the user experience and making interactions more efficient.
OpenAI emphasizes that this feature encourages users to share any relevant context they desire ChatGPT to incorporate into its responses. For instance, educators can inform the AI about the grade level they are teaching, while developers can specify their preferred programming languages when seeking recommendations. Similarly, users can provide details about their family size, allowing ChatGPT to offer customized responses related to meals, grocery shopping, and vacation planning. Although users already have the option to specify such details during conversations, the custom instructions feature proves particularly valuable when a consistent context needs to be set regularly.
Notably, this versatility extends beyond simple text interactions as the custom instructions feature seamlessly integrates with plug-ins. This integration enables users to receive location-based suggestions, such as restaurant or flight recommendations, making ChatGPT even more valuable as a personalized assistant.
OpenAI has introduced the custom instructions feature primarily for Plus plan users, empowering them to take advantage of this innovative capability. However, the company has stated that this feature won’t be accessible to individuals residing in the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (U.K.) at present. As it is currently in beta, OpenAI is keen on gathering feedback from users to fine-tune and refine the functionality further.
To access this exciting new capability, users can visit the web version of ChatGPT, navigate to their profile settings, and select “Beta features,” where they can opt into custom instructions. For iOS users, the process involves accessing Settings, selecting “New Features,” and enabling “Custom Instructions.”
OpenAI acknowledges the value of user input and assures users that the information provided through custom instructions will be utilized to improve the performance of its API models. The AI model will learn to adapt its responses effectively based on user instructions, striking the right balance between customization and avoiding excessive overfitting to individual preferences. Nevertheless, users have the option to opt out of this data-sharing setting through their data control preferences.
The company has been actively testing this feature with a select group of users for some time, as highlighted by consultant Gavriel Cohen on Twitter. The customization process entails two boxes, allowing users to describe themselves and specify their desired preferences for tuning ChatGPT’s responses. Once users input their preferences, the changes will take effect during the subsequent interactions. It is worth noting that the maximum character limit for these responses is set at 1,500 characters.
In the interest of user safety and responsible AI usage, OpenAI utilizes its moderation API to scan custom instructions for potential harmful content. If any responses generated from such instructions violate the company’s policies, ChatGPT may refuse to save or simply ignore those guidelines. This precautionary measure ensures that users don’t inadvertently request instructions that could lead to harmful or offensive responses from the AI.
OpenAI has been steadily expanding the availability of ChatGPT across different platforms and regions. The company initially launched the ChatGPT app for iOS, exclusive to U.S.-based users, before subsequently extending it to more than 40 countries. To further enhance user experience, OpenAI also introduced an iPad app equipped with support for Siri and Shortcuts. Additionally, users can now use Bing to search the web for answers directly from the ChatGPT app.
In conclusion, OpenAI’s introduction of customized instructions for ChatGPT marks a significant milestone in empowering users to personalize their interactions with the AI language model. By allowing users to set context-specific guidelines, OpenAI not only streamlines communication but also fosters a more efficient and tailored AI experience. With a commitment to user feedback and responsible AI practices, OpenAI continues to refine and expand ChatGPT’s capabilities, making it a versatile and invaluable tool for a diverse range of users worldwide.
