New AI models incoming, mandatory AI skills, and easier weekends with the kids

Hey everyone!

Welcome to the third edition of Useful Now. First up—a massive thanks to all of you who’ve subscribed, and especially to those who’ve been sharing it around. Your support means a lot, and I’m really excited to keep growing this together.

This week, I’m trying something a bit different. Instead of the previous format, I want to share some quick thoughts—and make a prediction. I reckon OpenAI is about to launch some genuinely game-changing models within the next few days. Here’s why:

Just last month, Google released Gemini 2.5—matching the capabilities of ChatGPT’s expensive $200/month o1 Pro—but totally free to use. Typically, whenever a rival catches up, OpenAI quickly responds by launching something even better.

Another strong signal: OpenAI recently updated their Preparedness Framework, the guidelines they use to manage AI safety. They’re openly stating that AI is now on the verge of creating original scientific discoveries. That’s huge. It suggests rapid advancements are around the corner and with future things on their radar such as accelerated self-improvement to serious new cybersecurity risks, as well as the possibility of advanced persuasive or autonomous behaviours. You don’t update your safety policy without having something powerful ready to launch.

On Monday, ChatGPT also upgraded its memory feature, which now references your entire chat history. I gave it a try, asking things like “Tell me everything you know about me” or “What are my blind spots?” The answers were astonishingly insightful. If you can access it, definitely give it a go.

Finally, there was a leaked memo from Shopify’s CEO, reinforcing just how seriously companies are taking AI integration. Using AI is no longer optional at Shopify—it’s an expectation. Everyone from interns to executives is being asked to embed AI deeply into their workflows, aiming at “100x outcomes,” and they’re even including AI usage in performance reviews. This isn’t about AI as just another brainstorming tool—they expect it to do actual work.

It’s clear we’re entering an exciting new chapter in AI. Big things are coming fast, and I’m excited to see how it unfolds.

The good news? Right now is the perfect moment to jump in and sharpen your AI skills—there’s a huge opportunity waiting to be seized!

I’d love for this newsletter to help you stay ahead. Drop me a reply and let me know which tutorials, guides, or topics you’d find most useful. I’ll make sure Useful Now is tailored precisely to what you need.

Speak soon!