ChatGPT can now ‘think’ and ‘act’ for you after a new update

OpenAI has introduced an innovative feature for ChatGPT that allows the well-known chatbot to take actions on behalf of users. This development is part of a broader movement across the tech industry aimed at transforming how individuals interact with the internet. Instead of continuously switching between applications and manually searching for information, users may soon rely on intelligent agents to streamline these tasks. The newly launched agent mode for ChatGPT is an indication of the tech giants' commitment to advancing digital assistants with significantly enhanced functionalities. This update intensifies the competition between OpenAI and Google, which is also developing similar capabilities with its Gemini assistant. The agent mode, which is rolling out immediately, enables ChatGPT to 'think' and 'act' through its own virtual computer, allowing it to tackle intricate, action-oriented requests. Users can now issue commands like, "check my calendar and summarize upcoming client meetings based on recent news" or "plan and purchase ingredients for a Japanese breakfast for four," as detailed in a blog post by OpenAI. In a demonstration video, OpenAI team members showcased the agent's capabilities by asking it to assist in wedding preparations. They provided specific instructions, such as finding outfits that adhere to the dress code and suggesting hotels for a couple of buffer days around the event. This feature is accessible to subscribers of the Pro, Plus, or Team plans and builds upon existing tools like ChatGPT Operator and Deep Research. While Operator browses the web, Deep Research compiles and analyzes information, allowing users to generate reports. However, OpenAI acknowledges that this new functionality comes with its own set of challenges. The company has imposed limitations on the data accessible to the model, and some tasks—like sending emails—require user supervision. The AI is also programmed to decline "high-risk tasks" such as bank transfers. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the experimental nature of this feature, advising users to approach it with caution. He noted that while allowing ChatGPT to access personal information for coordinating a group dinner might be beneficial, it wouldn’t be necessary for shopping tasks. As major tech companies accelerate their efforts to develop advanced AI agents, Google has recently unveiled a series of AI-related features, including an assistant capable of making restaurant reservations and purchasing event tickets. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly working on a more sophisticated version of Siri that could operate applications on users' behalf, although this update has been postponed indefinitely.