OpenAI has entered the virtual assistant market with its new beta feature, Tasks, for ChatGPT. This development positions OpenAI as a direct competitor to established virtual assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Apple’s Siri, offering advanced capabilities powered by generative AI.
This announcement builds on the momentum of OpenAI’s breakthrough in generative AI, which began with the release of ChatGPT in late 2022. The new feature allows users to schedule tasks, set reminders, and automate routine updates, signaling a bold step forward in the virtual assistant space.
What Is OpenAI’s Tasks?
OpenAI’s Tasks is designed to make ChatGPT function more like a virtual assistant, combining conversational AI with real-time utility.
- One-Time Reminders: Users can set alerts for important events, such as concert ticket sales or deadlines.
- Recurring Updates: The feature supports recurring actions, including daily weather forecasts or weekly news briefings.
- Smart Suggestions: Based on user conversations, ChatGPT can propose tasks, but users retain control to accept or decline these suggestions.
“Tasks is about enhancing the convenience of everyday life, from managing schedules to simplifying routine updates,” said OpenAI in its official statement.
Competing with Alexa and Siri
The virtual assistant market is crowded, but OpenAI’s move challenges the incumbents in unique ways.
- Amazon Alexa: Amazon recently announced plans to integrate generative AI into Alexa, enabling proactive actions without user prompts. CEO Andy Jassy revealed in December 2024 that this upgraded Alexa version will roll out “in the coming months.”
- Apple Siri: Apple has incorporated its proprietary Apple Intelligence technology into Siri, which now leverages OpenAI’s ChatGPT for enhanced conversational abilities. Apple assures users that explicit permission will be sought before accessing ChatGPT, ensuring privacy.
These developments underscore a race to redefine the virtual assistant space, where OpenAI’s expertise in generative AI could give it an edge.
Global Rollout and Accessibility
OpenAI announced that Tasks will begin its beta rollout globally within the next few days, starting with Plus, Team, and Pro subscribers on the web platform. Plans to extend access to mobile devices and basic users are likely in the pipeline, though OpenAI has not confirmed a timeline.
Why It Matters: The Broader AI Revolution
The virtual assistant market is rapidly evolving as AI capabilities expand. OpenAI’s entry intensifies competition, pushing companies to innovate faster.
Amazon has struggled to make Alexa profitable, despite being a decade-old platform. Meanwhile, Apple’s collaboration with OpenAI highlights the increasing role of partnerships in AI innovation. OpenAI’s Tasks could disrupt this space by offering a robust, user-centric alternative.
“Generative AI isn’t just about conversation; it’s about transformation,” said an AI industry analyst. “OpenAI’s Tasks has the potential to redefine what we expect from virtual assistants.”
