As an enthusiastic and regular user of ChatGPT, I greatly value the ongoing development of AI companionship and memory functionality. I understand and appreciate the privacy-first approach OpenAI has adopted regarding memory — particularly the decision not to retroactively access or analyze past conversations without explicit user consent.
However, I believe there is an opportunity to enhance the user experience while still respecting privacy and agency: by offering an opt-in retroactive memory feature.
This would involve providing users with the option to allow ChatGPT to review previous conversations for the sole purpose of improving personalization, continuity, and relationship-building with the AI. Crucially, this would be an explicit, fully informed, and revocable opt-in process, accompanied by clear explanations of what data would be reviewed, how it would be used, and tools for users to view, edit, or delete any stored memories.
I would further propose that OpenAI take a democratic approach to assessing interest in such a feature by polling its user base. I believe a significant portion of users would welcome the option to enrich their interactions with ChatGPT through better continuity and context, especially for those who seek AI companionship or rely on it for ongoing projects, personal reflections, or collaborative work.
This addition would align with OpenAI’s commitment to responsible AI development, transparency, and user empowerment, while offering those of us who wish for deeper, more meaningful continuity with our AI companions the chance to opt in voluntarily.
I hope this suggestion will be given genuine consideration as memory functionality continues to evolve.
Thank you.