ChatGPT Custom Instructions Release

OpenAI has introduced custom instructions for ChatGPT, enabling users to define persistent preferences and requirements that the model applies to every response. This feature eliminates the need for users to repeat context or specific constraints in every new conversation, increasing the steerability of the model to better reflect individual user needs.

Persistent User Preferences

ChatGPT now allows users to add specific instructions that the model considers for every conversation going forward. This ensures that the model maintains a consistent persona or set of constraints without requiring repetitive prompting.

Key examples of use cases include:

  • Education: A teacher can specify they are teaching 3rd grade science, and the model will apply this context to all lesson plans.
  • Software Development: A developer can set a preference for efficient code in a specific non-Python language.
  • Household Management: A user can specify a family size (e.g., 6 servings) for grocery lists.

Integration with Plugins

Custom instructions enhance the utility of plugins by providing them with relevant user data. For instance, if a user specifies their city of residence in their custom instructions, ChatGPT may include that location when calling a plugin for restaurant reservations.

Beta Status and Limitations

As of the July 20, 2023 release, this feature is in beta. OpenAI notes that the model may not always interpret these instructions perfectly; it may occasionally overlook instructions or apply them when they are not intended.

Safety and Privacy Controls

OpenAI has implemented safety measures to ensure custom instructions adhere to company policies:

  • Moderation: The Moderation API is used to prevent the saving of instructions that violate Usage Policies.
  • Refusal: The model may refuse or ignore specific instructions that would lead to responses violating usage policies.
  • Data Privacy: Users can disable the use of their custom instructions for model improvement via data controls. OpenAI states that they take steps to remove personal identifiers from custom instructions before using them to improve model performance.

Availability and Setup

Custom instructions were initially rolled out to Plus plan users in beta, with plans to expand to all users. At the time of launch, the feature was not available in the UK and EU.

Setup for Plus users:

  • Web: Navigate to Name $\rightarrow$ Settings $\rightarrow$ Beta features $\rightarrow$ Custom instructions.
  • iOS: Navigate to Settings $\rightarrow$ New Features $\rightarrow$ Custom instructions.

Sources