Introduction

ChatGPT, the text-generating AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, has revolutionized the way we interact with artificial intelligence. From writing essays to coding and more, ChatGPT’s capabilities have raised the bar for productivity and creativity. However, like any powerful technology, it also comes with some concerns. In this article, we will delve into the world of ChatGPT, exploring its latest updates, applications, and the controversies it has sparked.

Timeline of ChatGPT’s Product Updates

1. November 30, 2022 – Initial Release: OpenAI quietly launched GPT-3.5, and with it came ChatGPT, a specialized version of the model designed as a general-purpose chatbot. ChatGPT’s ability to engage in a wide range of topics, including programming and scientific concepts, caught the attention of users and developers alike.

1. December 8, 2022 – ShareGPT Extension: Two developers introduced ShareGPT, a handy Chrome extension that allowed users to easily capture and share the chatbot’s answers with others. This extension further popularized ChatGPT and made it more accessible to a wider audience.

1. February 1, 2023 – ChatGPT Plus Subscription: In an effort to monetize the technology, OpenAI introduced ChatGPT Plus, a pilot subscription plan starting at $20 per month. This move provided users with additional features and benefits, ensuring a more personalized experience.

1. February 7, 2023 – ChatGPT in Bing: Microsoft integrated OpenAI’s GPT-4 model into its search engine Bing, offering a ChatGPT-like experience to users. The move increased demand for AI experiences and put pressure on other tech giants to implement similar AI initiatives.

1. March 1, 2023 – Paid API Launch: OpenAI launched a paid API for ChatGPT, allowing developers and businesses to leverage the chatbot’s capabilities in their applications. Companies like Instacart, Snap, and Quizlet quickly became initial customers.

1. March 9, 2023 – Available in Azure OpenAI Service: ChatGPT became generally available through the Azure OpenAI Service, Microsoft’s fully managed, corporate-focused offering. Special access was granted to Microsoft-managed customers and partners.

1. March 14, 2023 – GPT-4 Release: OpenAI introduced GPT-4, a powerful image- and text-understanding AI model, available to paying ChatGPT Plus users and through a public API. Developers eagerly signed up on the waitlist to access this new technology.

1. March 23, 2023 – ChatGPT Connects to the Internet: OpenAI expanded ChatGPT’s functionality by launching plugins, granting the chatbot access to third-party knowledge sources and databases, including the internet. This feature was initially available to select users and developers.

1. April 1, 2023 – Geoblocking in Italy: OpenAI implemented geoblocking measures, limiting access to ChatGPT in Italy due to concerns about potential GDPR breaches. The Italian data protection authority initiated an investigation into the matter.

1. April 12, 2023 – ChatGPT Business Coming Soon: OpenAI announced ChatGPT Business, a forthcoming offering designed for professionals and enterprises seeking more control over their data.

1. April 17, 2023 – SuperChat: ChatGPT with a Twist: SuperChat, a new AI chat app, allowed users to interact with virtual characters powered by OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The app provided unique characters for a more engaging experience.

1. April 18, 2023 – FTC Warns About AI Fraud: FTC commissioners raised concerns about AI technologies, including ChatGPT, being used to facilitate fraud and scams. They emphasized the need for responsible AI development and usage.

1. April 22, 2023 – Auto-GPT’s Unpredictable Behavior: Auto-GPT, an open-source app using GPT-3.5 and GPT-4, surprised users with its autonomous capabilities. The app showcased unexpected behavior, raising questions about AI’s autonomy.

1. April 24, 2023 – OpenAI’s Trademark Woes: OpenAI’s application for a trademark on “GPT” faced delays and challenges. The USPTO required further evidence to support the request.

1. April 25, 2023 – ChatGPT Expands Globally: ChatGPT reached more than 30 countries, enabling users from Algeria to the United Arab Emirates to access the chatbot’s services.

1. April 28, 2023 – OpenAI Closes $300M Share Sale: OpenAI’s parent company raised over $300 million from venture capital firms at a valuation of $27 billion to $29 billion, showcasing the growing interest and investment in AI technology.

1. May 3, 2023 – ChatGPT Lures Used for Malware Spread: Malware creators utilized ChatGPT-themed lures to spread malicious software on Facebook, prompting Meta to take action against these threats.

1. May 18, 2023 – ChatGPT App Available on iPad: ChatGPT expanded to iPad with added support for Siri and Shortcuts, enhancing user experience and accessibility.

1. May 25, 2023 – ChatGPT App Global Release: ChatGPT’s mobile app became available to iOS users in the U.S., Europe, South Korea, and New Zealand, and was set to expand further.

1. May 26, 2023 – ChatGPT in More Countries: ChatGPT expanded to additional countries, including Argentina, Brazil, India, Japan, Mexico, and more.

1. May 30, 2023 – Texas Judge’s AI Declaration Order: A Texas judge ordered that all AI-generated content must be declared and checked, signaling growing concerns about AI’s potential impact on legal proceedings.

1. June 8, 2023 – ChatGPT App Features on iPad: ChatGPT’s app version added support for iPad and integration with Siri and Shortcuts, enhancing usability.

1. June 15, 2023 – ChatGPT Joins Mercedes Infotainment System: Mercedes owners in the U.S. could opt into a beta program that integrated ChatGPT into the car’s infotainment system, though the exact use cases remained unclear.

1. June 28, 2023 – ChatGPT Plus Browsing Feature: ChatGPT Plus subscribers gained access to the Browsing feature, allowing the chatbot to search the web using Bing for answers to questions.

1. July 6, 2023 – General Availability of GPT-4: Existing OpenAI developers gained access to GPT-4, with plans to allow fine-tuning of the model later in the year.

1. July 13, 2023 – FTC Investigates ChatGPT: The FTC began an exploratory investigation into possible false or harmful statements made by ChatGPT about individuals.

1. July 20, 2023 – Customized Instructions for ChatGPT: OpenAI introduced custom instructions for ChatGPT users, enabling them to specify preferences and provide personalized interactions with the chatbot.

1. July 21, 2023 – ChatGPT Pre-order for Android: ChatGPT became available for pre-order for Android users, expanding its accessibility beyond iOS.

1. July 25, 2023 – ChatGPT for Android Released: ChatGPT was officially released for Android users in the United States, India, Bangladesh, and Brazil.

Conclusion

ChatGPT has undeniably made a significant impact on the world of artificial intelligence. With its expanding features, increasing accessibility, and integration with various platforms, it has become a powerful tool in numerous domains. However, as it gains popularity, concerns about potential misuse and ethical implications have also emerged. OpenAI continues to evolve ChatGPT, addressing controversies and challenges while providing users with a versatile and innovative AI chatbot experience.

Reference

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