OpenAI is testing a new feature that lets users customize ChatGPT by assigning it personality traits.
Some users reported seeing updates to the custom instructions menu on the ChatGPT web app, allowing them to add details like a preferred nickname, profession, and traits such as “Chatty,” “Encouraging,” or “Gen Z.”
The feature appears to be aimed at making interactions with ChatGPT more personal and tailored. A message in the updated menu encourages users to “introduce yourself to get better, more personalized responses.”
This customization option is separate from ChatGPT’s memory feature, which allows the chatbot to remember or forget specific information based on user requests.
While the new menu presents a more user-friendly design, it still relies on prompt engineering, a method that guides ChatGPT’s responses by using instructions provided by users.
OpenAI has previously stated that all custom instructions are moderated to ensure they comply with its terms of use.
Some users have noted that the new options disappeared shortly after appearing, suggesting the feature may have been released prematurely.
OpenAI has not confirmed the rollout, and TechCrunch has reached out to the company for comment but has yet to receive a response.
The update comes as OpenAI continues to enhance ChatGPT’s functionality. Recent additions include live web search and a Canvas interface for writing and coding projects.
OpenAI reported in December that ChatGPT now has over 300 million weekly users, reflecting its growing popularity.
