OpenAI updates ChatGPT to reference your past chats

Tech Crunch - Apr 10th, 2025
Open on Tech Crunch

OpenAI is rolling out a new memory feature in ChatGPT, allowing the chatbot to customize its responses based on users' previous conversations. This feature, labeled as 'reference saved memories' in the settings, aims to enhance the relevance of interactions by adding conversational context to the text, voice, and image generation capabilities of ChatGPT. Initially, this feature will be available to ChatGPT Pro and Plus subscribers, with exceptions in the U.K., EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland due to regulatory reviews. OpenAI has not announced when or if this feature will be available for free-tier users.

The memory feature is designed to make ChatGPT interactions smoother and more personalized, eliminating the need for users to repeat previously shared information. Recognizing privacy concerns, OpenAI provides an opt-out option, allowing users to disable the memory feature or manage saved memories. This advancement follows a similar feature introduced by Google in its Gemini model earlier this year. The introduction of persistent memory in ChatGPT highlights a shift toward more personalized AI interactions, though it raises questions about data privacy and regulatory compliance in various regions.

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RATING

7.0
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and timely overview of OpenAI's new memory feature for ChatGPT, highlighting its potential benefits and privacy concerns. It effectively communicates the key points and is accessible to a general audience, but it could benefit from more diverse perspectives and greater transparency about the regulatory and technical aspects. While it engages readers interested in AI and privacy issues, its impact on broader discussions may be limited by the lack of in-depth analysis and expert opinions. Overall, the story is informative and relevant, but there is room for a more comprehensive exploration of the topic.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The news story provides a detailed account of OpenAI's new memory feature for ChatGPT, with most claims aligning well with known facts. The rollout to paid subscribers and the exclusion of certain regions due to regulatory requirements are accurately reported, as are the opt-out options and potential privacy concerns. However, the story could provide more specifics on the nature of these regulatory requirements and whether any concrete steps have been taken to address them. Additionally, while it mentions Google's similar feature, it lacks a direct comparison of functionalities, which could provide more context. The absence of details on the effectiveness of the feature in practice leaves some gaps in understanding its true impact.

7
Balance

The article presents a fairly balanced view by including both the potential benefits and concerns associated with the new memory feature. It highlights the feature's aim to enhance personalization and user experience, while also acknowledging privacy concerns and offering opt-out options. However, the article could benefit from more perspectives, particularly from privacy advocates or regulatory experts, to provide a fuller picture of the potential implications of this feature. This would help ensure that both the technological advancements and their ethical considerations are equally represented.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear language to explain the new memory feature, its rollout, and its potential benefits and drawbacks. The logical flow from introduction to conclusion helps readers follow the story easily. However, the inclusion of more technical details about how the feature works could enhance understanding for readers unfamiliar with AI technologies. Overall, the article is accessible and informative, making it easy for readers to grasp the key points.

6
Source quality

The article cites OpenAI's statements and includes a quote from a spokesperson, suggesting a direct source of information. However, it lacks references to independent experts or third-party evaluations that could enhance the credibility and depth of the reporting. The reliance on company statements means the story may reflect OpenAI's perspectives more prominently than those of external analysts or critics. Including a wider variety of sources would strengthen the article's authority and provide a more comprehensive view of the topic.

6
Transparency

The article provides a clear outline of the new feature and its intended benefits, but it is less transparent about the methodology behind its claims and the potential biases inherent in relying primarily on company sources. It does not delve into how the feature was developed or tested, nor does it explore the specific regulatory challenges mentioned. Greater transparency regarding these aspects would help readers better understand the context and implications of the feature rollout.

Sources

  1. https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/10/openai-updates-chatgpt-to-reference-your-other-chats/
  2. https://feeds.twtxt.net/hacker_news/twtxt.txt
  3. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/artificial-intelligence/openai-wants-chatgpt-to-know-you-over-your-life-with-new-memory-update/
  4. https://www.tomsguide.com/ai/chatgpt-just-got-a-huge-memory-upgrade-heres-why-its-a-big-deal
  5. https://www.techradar.com/news/live/openai-chatgpt-feature-announcment-april-2025