Source URL: https://simonwillison.net/2025/Aug/22/project-memory/#atom-everything
Source: Simon Willison’s Weblog
Title: ChatGPT release notes: Project-only memory
Feedly Summary: ChatGPT release notes: Project-only memory
The feature I’ve most wanted from ChatGPT’s memory feature (the newer version of memory that automatically includes relevant details from summarized prior conversations) just landed:
With project-only memory enabled, ChatGPT can use other conversations in that project for additional context, and won’t use your saved memories from outside the project to shape responses. Additionally, it won’t carry anything from the project into future chats outside of the project.
This looks like exactly what I described back in May:
I need control over what older conversations are being considered, on as fine-grained a level as possible without it being frustrating to use.
What I want is memory within projects. […]
I would love the option to turn on memory from previous chats in a way that’s scoped to those projects.
Note that it’s not yet available in the official chathpt mobile apps, but should be coming “soon":
This feature will initially only be available on the ChatGPT website and Windows app. Support for mobile (iOS and Android) and macOS app will follow in the coming weeks.
Via @btibor91
Tags: ai, openai, generative-ai, chatgpt, llms
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text discusses the introduction of a project-only memory feature in ChatGPT, enhancing user control over contextual data from prior conversations within projects. This development is pivotal for users who require specific memory management, particularly in collaborative and sensitive environments, making it relevant for professionals focusing on AI and its governance.
Detailed Description: The newly announced project-only memory feature in ChatGPT is significant for several reasons, particularly as it enhances user control over the AI’s retention and application of contextual information derived from previous interactions. Key highlights include:
– **Project-specific memory**: This feature allows ChatGPT to utilize conversations relevant only to a specific project. This means users can engage in discussions without the risk of unrelated information from other projects influencing the responses.
– **Granular control**: Users expressed a desire for fine-grained control over which past conversations the AI considers. This development directly responds to that need, ensuring stakeholders can manage the context that ChatGPT uses, which is critical in sensitive or regulated environments.
– **Phased rollout**: Initially available only on the ChatGPT website and Windows app, with promises of expansion to mobile platforms and macOS soon. This phased approach allows for testing and improvements based on user feedback.
– **Implications for generative AI**: With this feature, the management of conversations and personal memory could address privacy concerns by limiting the sharing of sensitive information across different projects.
Overall, the project-only memory enhances usability for teams and individual professionals, promoting better focus and privacy, especially in sectors where information security and compliance are paramount.
– **Future considerations**: The expected roll-out to mobile apps could signify a broader application across different use cases, increasing the importance of training users on effective memory management practices.
In summary, this innovation in ChatGPT aligns with the growing focus on control and governance in AI applications, highlighting compliance concerns and user experience in AI tools for various sectors.