I’ve used ChatGPT since its launch and have slowly tried out every new feature as they arrive. While most folks use ChatGPT just to ask questions or plan their day, I believe that if you’re not using these features, you’re missing out on what makes it so useful.
6
Create and Analyze Images
ChatGPT isn’t limited to text generation—it can also create AI-generated images based on text descriptions, such as artwork, logos, or unique visuals for your content. It can also analyze uploaded images by identifying objects, extracting text, and recognizing patterns, which makes it especially useful for interpreting infographics or complex visuals.
To generate an image, simply enter a prompt like, “Create an image of a spider surrounded by processors,” and ChatGPT will generate it for you.
If you want ChatGPT to analyze an image, click the plus icon, select Upload from computer, and select the image from your local storage. Then, ask ChatGPT what you’d like it to analyze.
5
Browse the Web
ChatGPT can access the web for real-time information, which allows it to go beyond its pre-trained knowledge. Whether you need details on niche topics, want to check the weather, ask about trending news, or research a product, it fetches the latest data. It also provides references to its sources, saving you time from manually browsing search results.
It helps with fact-checking and debunking misinformation. However, since it relies on online sources, it could generate incorrect information, so you should cross-check sensitive details later.
To use the ChatGPT search feature, you can either type a prompt to request ChatGPT to search the web or click the Search option before entering your prompt to allow it to browse the web. The response may take a few extra seconds compared to the usual replies.
4
Chat Hands-Free With Voice Mode
ChatGPT’s Voice Mode lets you use your voice to communicate with the AI assistant. It responds instantly and feels like chatting with a friend. This also speeds things up since you can interact without typing a word. This feature is especially helpful for the elderly or those with disabilities who have difficulty typing. You can also use it to practice for an interview.
To enable this feature, tap the voice mode icon in the bottom right of the search bar, allow microphone access, and begin speaking. To exit, tap the cross icon. Your chat history remains saved in the same chat. To change the default voice, tap the tune icon in the top right and select your preferred voice.
3
Experiment With Custom GPTs
Custom GPTs are customized versions of ChatGPT built for specific tasks. You can think of them as experts in the topics you create them for. For instance, if you create a GPT to help with writing cold outreach emails, it will focus specifically on that task. The best part is that no coding skills are required, so anyone can make one.
You can share your custom GPT so others can try it. Likewise, you can access GPTs created by other users from the GPT library. To browse available GPTs, click Explore GPTs at the top of the left sidebar, search for your desired GPT, select it, and click Start Chat.
Free-tier users now have restricted access to GPTs. GPT-4o rate limits apply to both GPTs and ChatGPT. Once you reach the limit, you’ll need to wait for it to reset before using GPTs again. Additionally, a Plus subscription is required to create and share your GPTs. You cannot leave ratings for GPTs as a free user.
2
Get the Reasoning Behind Responses
In regular conversation mode, ChatGPT provides direct answers to your questions. Using ChatGPT’s reasoning feature, you can ask it to explain the thought process behind its response. For example, if you ask, “Can you learn to code on your own?” ChatGPT will give an answer along with the reasoning behind it.
As a free user, you can use this feature by clicking the Reason button next to the Search button when entering your prompt. When you receive a response, you can expand the reasoning section to see how the AI arrived at its answer. You can also keep this feature enabled for follow-up questions so that you can view the reasoning throughout the conversation.
As a Plus subscriber, you can choose from various models to get responses using advanced reasoning.
1
See What ChatGPT Remembers About You
ChatGPT has a memory feature that stores information from conversations across all chats. You can tell it to remember specific details, review the memories it has, and ask it to forget if you’re uncomfortable with any data. To view what it remembers, click your profile icon and go to Settings > Personalization > Manage Memories.
From there, you can delete specific memories or click the Clear ChatGPT’s memory button to erase all memories it has of you.
