ChatGPT’s “Tasks” feature has sparked both hype and skepticism since its recent launch. Some dismiss it as an unnecessary gimmick, while others hail it as groundbreaking. My take? Somewhere in between…
Table of Contents
It’s Not “Just Another Scheduler”
In a nutshell, this new feature allows users to schedule recurring or one-time actions for ChatGPT, like generating content or sending reminders etc. It isn’t really designed to replace your to-do list or calendar app (yet) though. I wouldn’t use it for “standard reminders” like to-dos, chores, deadlines, events etc. For those cases, I prefer dedicated/specialized apps like MSFT To Do/Outlook etc.
But what is it good for? ChatGPT Tasks shines when applied to workflows where GenAI’s strengths – creative writing, research, customization etc. – come into play. Whether it’s generating a tailored news digest or nudging you towards “more desirable habits”, Tasks adds a new flavor to the table.
It’s worth noting that the feature is still in beta and notifications currently arrive via email. While (somewhat) functional, this can lead to inbox clutter… Push notifications directly to the phone may make the experience smoother and I guess OpenAI will introduce this soon. Also, mind AI outputs are not always reliable; use features like Tasks thoughtfully and double-check important info.
How to Access and Set Up ChatGPT Tasks
Getting started with “ChatGPT Tasks” is straightforward:
1. Access the Tasks Feature: Log in to your ChatGPT account and select “Tasks” from the selection drop-down menu (s. next screenshot):
2. Create a Task: Create a new task and define the What (action) and When (schedule) in natural language (see example in next screenshot):
3. Manage and Edit Tasks: Navigate to the Tasks section from your profile drop-down menu to view all scheduled tasks. There you can edit, pause or delete tasks as needed (s. following screenshot):
A quick note: You can have up to 10 active tasks at once currently. With that groundwork done, let’s move to 6 cool use cases where ChatGPT Tasks can already help you today.
Use Case 1: Daily/Weekly News Digest
Facing today’s info overload, staying up-to-date is a challenge. ChatGPT’s Tasks feature makes it easier, e.g., by providing tailored news summaries that cut through the noise.
For example, you can set up a task like this: “Every weekday at 8 am, summarize the latest capital markets news, focusing on stocks X, Y and Z in three key points each with source links.” With this setup, ChatGPT can act as your personal research assistant, delivering updates in a concise, digestible format.
However, it’s important to use these outputs thoughtfully. AI-generated summaries can lack nuance or miss critical details, so always double-check important info – esp. if it’s influencing significant decisions like investments. Also, to stay up to date with AI trends and tools “effortlessly”, I also have a couple of resources for you.
Use Case 2: Regular “Learning Nuggets”
Building new skills or learning a language takes consistent effort and practice, but in our hectic lives these things can easily “fall under the table”. ChatGPT Tasks can help you create structure by delivering small, actionable prompts that keep you on track.
You could, for instance, ask it to get a personalized reminder like this: “Help me practice five new Spanish vocabulary words every evening at 7 pm, incl. example phrases.” Over time, these small nudges add up to meaningful progress. Your creativity is the limiting factor here: vocabulary drills, grammar exercises, learning capital cities or review sessions for any topic or occasion. You name it…
I have always been a huge fan of trivia quizzes as a way to playfully develop my general knowledge and quench my curiosity. I even wrote this guide how to turn ChatGPT & Co. into your personal quiz show host with an example prompt, if you want to take this a level further.
Use Case 3: Ongoing Inspirational Inputs
Sometimes, all it takes is a little inspiration to start your day/week(end)/year/etc. on the right note. ChatGPT can jumpstart that, e.g., with motivational quotes, thought-provoking ideas, book recommendations etc. – whatever works for you.
For example, you may schedule: “Every Friday afternoon at 4 pm, share an inspiring book suggestion for the weekend with a sample quote from it related to my [challenges and interests].” These small impulses can spark new ways of thinking, feed your creativity or even help you find new aspirations in life.
By tailoring your prompts to your interests – such as challenges you’re facing or topics of interest for your personal/professional development – you can make this even more impactful. What type of inspiration would be good for you now?
Use Case 4: Creativity Prompts for Content Creation
For content creators, coming up with fresh ideas can sometimes feel like running on empty. “Been there, done that” with writer’s block etc. … ChatGPT Tasks can alleviate this issue by “tickling” your creative brain juices with relevant content ideas.
Consider, for instance, this task: “Every Monday at 10 am, suggest a new blog topic about [AI trends for business innovators with three potential headlines].” This ensures you never face a blank screen at the start of your week.
Over time, you can also experiment with prompts for different formats, like carousel posts or “listicles” etc., to keep your content varied and engaging. And of course, you’re not limited to writing: Adapt it to any media/format you’re interested in (video, music, art etc.).
Use Case 5: Local Exploration, Made Convenient
Planning your weekends or discovering hidden gems in your city doesn’t have to be a bachelor thesis’ worth of research. ChatGPT can offer tailored suggestions for local events, activities, weather updates etc. – whatever info you need for your activities.
For instance, you could schedule: “Every Friday at 3 pm, recommend three interesting local events happening this weekend, along with the weather forecast.” This saves time on research and makes it more likely you’ll actually do something rather than getting lost in “paralysis by analysis”.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences or family-friendly activities, this use case spices up your routine. Needless to say, this research feature is also amazing for travel planning, making ChatGPT your local tour guide wherever you go.
Use Case 6: “Behavior Correction Buddy”
That one is a mouthful… Breaking bad habits – or building good ones – requires consistency and encouragement. ChatGPT’s Tasks can act as your “accountability partner”, providing daily nudges specifically tailored to reinforce your goals.
For example, you may ask it: “Every evening at 8 pm, remind me why I’m avoiding sugary drinks and suggest a healthy option.” These small, personalized prompts can keep you focused on what matters while offering actionable tips.
However, please note that AI isn’t a substitute for professional help. Use it as a complementary support tool and – again – always critically review AI’s outputs which are not always dependable…
Wrap-up: Another Step for AI Agents
The fascinating part of ChatGPT’s Tasks feature isn’t what it can do today IMO – it’s what it signals for the future. While still in beta, this tool is a glimpse into the “evolution” of agentic AI systems – AI that doesn’t just assist but performs tasks on your behalf.
For example, imagine scheduling a task like: “Every three months, research water filters for my coffee machine and have the option fulfilling my [criteria] delivered to my home.” Or having Tasks not only write bedtime stories but narrate them with soothing voices or even full-blown animations.
These advancements align with one of my 2025 AI trend predictions. As AI grows more capable and multimodal, there will be more possibilities for automation. Rest assured: when Tasks reaches that level I’ll also cover more “agentic” use cases. We’re just getting started…
What do you think? Will features like this disrupt “traditional” startups or tools like newsletters or habit trackers? Which use cases feel most practical today and which could become more valuable as Tasks “evolves” to you? Leave your comments below.
Cheers,
John
What do you think?