OpenAI has revealed that it’s extending the availability of custom instructions to all users of ChatGPT, including those on the free tier of the service. This feature, initially introduced in July as a beta exclusively for ChatGPT Plus subscribers, empowers users to define preferences and guidelines for the AI chatbot’s responses.
This innovative feature can significantly enhance user interaction by eliminating the need to repeatedly provide the same instruction prompts during conversations with the chatbot, as previously covered by ProzTECK.
For instance, users can instruct ChatGPT to adhere to specific character limits or adjust the tone of its replies. This eliminates redundancy and ensures a more tailored and efficient interaction.
When custom instructions were first introduced in July, OpenAI cited the example of a teacher using ChatGPT to create lesson plans. With custom instructions, the teacher no longer needs to repeatedly specify their grade level, as the AI can automatically generate context-appropriate responses.
Developers can also benefit from custom instructions by directing the chatbot to respond in preferred languages or exclude specific languages.
OpenAI stated, “Through our conversations with users across 22 countries, we’ve deepened our understanding of the essential role steerability plays in enabling our models to effectively reflect the diverse contexts and unique needs of each person.”
Until now, the custom instructions feature was only available to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, who paid $20 per month. However, OpenAI has decided to make this feature accessible to both free and Plus users, regardless of whether they’re on iOS or Android platforms. Additionally, users can now use custom instructions even when chat history is turned off, a flexibility that enhances privacy.
To utilize custom instructions, users need to click on their profile name and select “Custom instructions” to initiate the setup.
OpenAI’s plans include extending this feature across the European Union and the United Kingdom in the near future. This expansion highlights OpenAI’s commitment to improving user experiences and catering to a global audience.
