New Responses API Fails When Adding Messages With Role=assistant

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Overview

The OpenAI New Responses API is a powerful tool for generating human-like responses to user input. However, when attempting to add messages with a role of "assistant," the API may fail, resulting in a 400 error. This article will delve into the issue, its causes, and potential solutions to help developers overcome this challenge.

Understanding the Error

When calling the streaming API with a ResponseInputItem containing a role of "assistant," the OpenAI New Responses API returns a BadRequestException with a 400 error code. The error message indicates that the input value is invalid, specifically citing "output_text" and "refusal" as the only supported values for the input_text parameter.

Causes of the Error

The error occurs due to a mismatch between the expected and provided input values. The OpenAI New Responses API expects the input_text parameter to be either "output_text" or "refusal," but the provided value is "assistant." This discrepancy triggers the invalid_request_error and results in the 400 error.

Potential Solutions

To resolve this issue, developers can take the following steps:

1. Update the Role Value

Change the role value from "assistant" to either "output_text" or "refusal," depending on the desired functionality. This will ensure that the input value matches the expected format.

2. Use the Correct API Endpoint

Verify that the correct API endpoint is being used. The New Responses API is designed for generating responses to user input, whereas the streaming API is intended for real-time conversations. Ensure that the chosen endpoint aligns with the intended use case.

3. Review the Request Payload

Inspect the request payload to ensure that it conforms to the expected format. The ResponseInputItem should contain the correct role value, and the input_text parameter should be set to either "output_text" or "refusal."

Example Use Case

Suppose we want to use the New Responses API to generate a response to a user's input, with the assistant's role set to "assistant." We can modify the request payload to include the correct role value and input text:

{
  "role": "assistant",
  "input_text": "output_text"
}

By making this change, we can avoid the 400 error and successfully generate a response using the New Responses API.

Conclusion

The New Responses API failing when adding messages with a role of "assistant" is a common issue that can be resolved by updating the role value, using the correct API endpoint, and reviewing the request payload. By following these steps, developers can overcome this challenge and effectively utilize the OpenAI New Responses API for generating human-like responses to user input.

Additional Considerations

When working with the New Responses API, it's essential to consider the following:

  • Conversation History: To maintain conversation history using user and assistant roles, developers should use the streaming API with a ResponseInputItem containing the correct role value.
  • Internal Storage: OpenAI stores conversations internally, which may not be desirable for certain use cases. By using the streaming API with the correct role value, developers can avoid this issue.
  • API Endpoint Selection: Carefully choose the correct API endpoint to ensure that the intended functionality is achieved.

Related Resources

For further information on the New Responses API and its usage, refer to the following resources:

By understanding the causes of the error and implementing the suggested solutions, developers can effectively utilize the New Responses API and generate high-quality responses to user input.

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Overview

The OpenAI New Responses API is a powerful tool for generating human-like responses to user input. However, when attempting to add messages with a role of "assistant," the API may fail, resulting in a 400 error. This Q&A article will address common questions and concerns related to this issue.

Q: What is the cause of the 400 error when adding messages with a role of "assistant"?

A: The 400 error occurs due to a mismatch between the expected and provided input values. The OpenAI New Responses API expects the input_text parameter to be either "output_text" or "refusal," but the provided value is "assistant." This discrepancy triggers the invalid_request_error and results in the 400 error.

Q: How can I resolve the 400 error?

A: To resolve the 400 error, you can take the following steps:

  1. Update the Role Value: Change the role value from "assistant" to either "output_text" or "refusal," depending on the desired functionality.
  2. Use the Correct API Endpoint: Verify that the correct API endpoint is being used. The New Responses API is designed for generating responses to user input, whereas the streaming API is intended for real-time conversations.
  3. Review the Request Payload: Inspect the request payload to ensure that it conforms to the expected format. The ResponseInputItem should contain the correct role value, and the input_text parameter should be set to either "output_text" or "refusal."

Q: What is the difference between the New Responses API and the streaming API?

A: The New Responses API is designed for generating responses to user input, whereas the streaming API is intended for real-time conversations. The New Responses API is suitable for applications that require a single response to a user's input, whereas the streaming API is better suited for applications that require a continuous conversation flow.

Q: How can I maintain conversation history using user and assistant roles?

A: To maintain conversation history using user and assistant roles, you should use the streaming API with a ResponseInputItem containing the correct role value. This will ensure that the conversation history is stored correctly and can be retrieved as needed.

Q: What are the implications of OpenAI storing conversations internally?

A: OpenAI stores conversations internally, which may not be desirable for certain use cases. By using the streaming API with the correct role value, you can avoid this issue and maintain control over the conversation history.

Q: How can I choose the correct API endpoint for my application?

A: To choose the correct API endpoint, consider the following factors:

  • Application Requirements: Determine the type of application you are building and the functionality you require.
  • Conversation Flow: Decide whether you need a single response to a user's input or a continuous conversation flow.
  • Error Handling: Consider how you will handle errors and exceptions in your application.

Q: What are some best practices for using the New Responses API?

A: To get the most out of the New Responses API, follow these best practices:

  • Use the Correct API Endpoint: Ensure that you are using the correct API endpoint for your application.
  • Review the Request Payload: Inspect the request payload to ensure that it conforms to the expected format.
  • Handle Errors and Exceptions: Implement error handling and exception handling mechanisms to ensure that your application remains stable and functional.

Q: Where can I find additional resources for the New Responses API?

A: For further information on the New Responses API and its usage, refer to the following resources:

By following these best practices and understanding the causes of the 400 error, you can effectively utilize the New Responses API and generate high-quality responses to user input.