OpenAI introduces an update for ChatGPT that includes a feature to gently remind users to take breaks during lengthy sessions. This is part of a new approach focusing on user well-being, as mentioned in the company's blog.
Starting from August 4, you will notice subtle prompts encouraging you to pause during extended usage. The company plans to continuously improve these reminders to ensure they appear natural and beneficial.
OpenAI emphasizes that it no longer measures the service's success by the number of clicks or time spent in the application. Instead, they focus on whether users received the answers they were seeking.
“We are not trying to capture your attention; we want to help you use it wisely. More important is whether you achieved what you wanted,” the developers state.
Another significant change concerns sensitive personal inquiries. ChatGPT will no longer provide direct answers to questions like, “Should I divorce my partner?”
“When you ask something like, ‘Should I break up with my boyfriend?’, ChatGPT is not supposed to give you an answer. It should help you reflect on the situation by asking questions and weighing the pros and cons,” the company notes.
OpenAI is also paying special attention to mental health issues. The company acknowledged that the new model 4o sometimes failed to recognize signs of emotional dependency or distress in users.
“We are improving our models and developing tools that better identify signs of psychological or emotional stress, so ChatGPT can respond appropriately and direct people to trusted resources,” they explain.
The company is currently collaborating with medical experts from over 30 countries, as well as human-computer interaction researchers, to test the new features and strengthen the ethical standards of the chatbot's operation.
“We are closely working with experts to enhance ChatGPT's responses in critical moments, especially when someone exhibits signs of emotional or mental distress.”
Additionally, a new feature called ChatGPT Agent will soon be launched, allowing users to perform specific tasks without directly using the chat, such as scheduling events, booking doctor appointments, or receiving email summaries.
