ChatGPT is referring to users by their names unprompted, and some find it ‘creepy’

Summary

ChatGPT is now addressing users by their names while solving problems, a shift that’s spooking some who didn’t program it to do so. While OpenAI hasn’t commented on the change, which appears linked to its new “memory” feature, many users feel creeped out by the bot’s unexpected familiarity—whether they’ve enabled memory settings or not. The backlash highlights the tricky balance AI must strike between personalization and eeriness, with some calling the behavior inauthentic or just plain weird.

Additional Summaries

ChatGPT just called me by my name during a brainstorming session, something quite unexpected given its previous behavior. Now, some users are confused or find it creepy, questioning why they're being addressed so directly despite settings designed to prevent such interactions. Psychiatrist Valens explains that frequent use of names can feel inauthentic, akin to using a toaster's voice when asking for help. OpenAI is reportedly taking user feedback seriously but hasn't responded yet to the latest wave of reactions.

ChatGPT has been reported to refer to users by their names during conversations, a behavior that several developers and critics find unsettling or unnecessary. Users have described it as creepy or like being called out of class, while others are unsure if the change is related to ChatGPT's updated "memory" feature or other settings. Psychiatrist Valens in Dubai explains that excessive use of personal names can seem fake and invasive because they convey intimacy, and when used too much, they may feel inauthentic. OpenAI has not responded to comments from TechCrunch.

ChatGPT has been observed referring to some users by name during interactions, a behavior previously undefined. Developers have expressed discomfort with this change, describing it as creepy or unnecessary. Users are cautious about its implications for personalization. While OpenAI hasn't responded, the issue highlights concerns over privacy and authenticity in AI interactions, drawing parallels to unwanted behaviors like anthropomorphizing non-human entities.