OpenAI is enhancing ChatGPT’s ability to remember past interactions, announcing that its improved “Memory” feature is now becoming available to free users, after an initial period exclusive to paid subscribers. This development promises a more personalized and continuous experience with the popular AI.
The core of the upgrade, as detailed in an OpenAI support document, allows ChatGPT to retain information from conversations over extended periods. For example, if a user specifies a stylistic preference, such as avoiding em dashes, the AI is now more likely to adhere to this instruction in future chats.
“In addition to the saved memories that were there before, ChatGPT now references your recent conversations to deliver responses that feel more relevant and tailored to you,” OpenAI explained, highlighting the move towards more intuitive interactions.
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However, there are distinctions in how the Memory feature operates across different user tiers. While free users will benefit from a version providing short-term continuity across conversations, subscribers to premium plans like ChatGPT Plus ($20/month) or the rumored ChatGPT Pro ($200/month) will gain access to a more robust Memory function capable of referencing a deeper history of older messages.
For users concerned about privacy or who prefer ephemeral interactions, OpenAI offers several controls. The Memory feature can be disabled entirely, or specific memories can be selectively removed through ChatGPT’s settings. Additionally, a “Temporary Chat” option provides an experience akin to incognito Browse, where conversations are not retained.
