ChatGPT Unveils Updates: Multi-File Analysis, Custom Instructions, and GPT-4 Default Model

OpenAI has announced a series of updates to its ChatGPT model, aimed at improving user experience and expanding the model's capabilities. These updates seem to align with the features offered by its emerging competitor, Claude.

The updates, detailed in the release notes published on August 3, 2023, include new features such as prompt examples, suggested replies, and the ability to analyze data across multiple files. The latter feature, in particular, appears to be a response to Claude's proficiency in handling multiple files.

The prompt examples feature aims to make initiating a conversation with ChatGPT less daunting for users. At the start of a new chat, users will now see examples to help them get started. The suggested replies feature, on the other hand, offers users relevant ways to continue their conversation with the model.

In a significant update, ChatGPT will now default to the GPT-4 model for Plus users, remembering the previously selected model and eliminating the need to default back to GPT-3.5. Plus users will also be able to ask ChatGPT to analyze data and generate insights across multiple files, a feature available with the Code Interpreter beta. This multi-file analysis feature is noteworthy as it mirrors Claude's well-regarded functionality in this area.

The release notes also mentioned the introduction of the ChatGPT app for Android, which became available for download in the United States, India, Bangladesh, and Brazil on July 25, 2023. OpenAI plans to expand the rollout to additional countries in the following weeks.

On July 20, 2023, OpenAI began rolling out custom instructions in beta, a feature that gives users more control over ChatGPT's responses. Once set, these preferences will guide future conversations. The feature is currently available to all Plus users and will be expanded to all users in the coming weeks.

OpenAI also announced that it was doubling the number of messages ChatGPT Plus customers can send with GPT-4. As of July 19, 2023, the new message limit will be 50 every three hours.

The release notes also highlighted the introduction of the Code Interpreter, a feature that allows ChatGPT to run code and analyze data, create charts, edit files, perform math, and more. This feature was rolled out to all ChatGPT Plus users on July 6, 2023. The updates reflect OpenAI's commitment to continually improving the ChatGPT experience and expanding the model's capabilities.